Neighbor Tones

Definition

Neighbor tones are non-chord tones that embellish a melody by moving stepwise away from a chord tone and then returning back to it. This technique adds melodic interest and creates tension and resolution in music, enhancing the harmonic improvisation process by allowing musicians to explore notes outside the established harmony while still maintaining a connection to the underlying chords.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neighbor tones can be classified as either upper neighbor tones, which move up from a chord tone, or lower neighbor tones, which move down.
2. They typically occur on weak beats or off-beats, allowing for the main melody to maintain its structural integrity while adding complexity.
3. In harmonic improvisation, neighbor tones can create dynamic movement and color in musical phrases, making them an essential tool for improvisers.
4. Musicians often use neighbor tones to decorate simple melodies, turning them into more expressive and engaging lines.
5. Understanding how to effectively use neighbor tones can enhance one's ability to create memorable musical phrases and contribute to overall musical storytelling.

Review Questions

• How do neighbor tones function in relation to chord tones in a melody?
  • Neighbor tones function by embellishing chord tones, moving either up or down from the main note and then returning. This creates a sense of tension and release within the melody, adding richness to the musical line. By incorporating these non-chord tones, musicians can add interest and complexity to their improvisations while still anchoring their phrases to the underlying harmony.
• Discuss how neighbor tones contribute to the overall structure of harmonic improvisation.
  • Neighbor tones play a crucial role in harmonic improvisation by providing opportunities for melodic decoration that enhance the expressive qualities of music. They allow improvisers to explore notes outside of the chord without losing the connection to the harmonic foundation. This exploration can lead to unexpected resolutions and greater emotional impact in a performance, encouraging spontaneity and creativity.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using neighbor tones in creating memorable musical phrases during improvisation.
  • Using neighbor tones effectively can significantly elevate musical phrases during improvisation. They add layers of texture and movement that can captivate listeners' attention and enhance emotional expression. When musicians master the use of neighbor tones, they can weave intricate lines that not only complement but also enrich the harmonic framework, resulting in performances that are both memorable and impactful.

Related terms

Chord Tone: A note that is part of the chord being played or implied at a given moment in music.

Passing Tone: A non-chord tone that connects two chord tones by stepping in between them, creating a smooth melodic line.

Suspension: A non-chord tone that is held over from a previous chord, creating a dissonance that resolves when it moves down to a chord tone.