Second

Definition

In music, a second refers to an interval that spans two consecutive scale degrees, which can be either melodic (played in succession) or harmonic (played simultaneously). This interval is fundamental in constructing melodies and harmonies, as it establishes both tension and resolution in musical phrases.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The second can be classified into two main types: major second (two half steps) and minor second (one half step), with each creating different musical effects.
2. In two-part writing, the use of seconds can create melodic interest and drive by introducing close intervals that often lead to resolutions.
3. When stacked in harmonies, seconds often create dissonance, prompting the need for resolution, which is a key aspect of tension and release in music.
4. Composers frequently use seconds in counterpoint to establish movement and connect lines, enhancing the interplay between voices.
5. Understanding how seconds function within scales and chords is crucial for effective modulation and the creation of engaging musical transitions.

Review Questions

• How do major and minor seconds contribute to the development of melody in two-part writing?
  • Major and minor seconds add richness and variety to melody in two-part writing. A major second creates a sense of forward motion with its slightly wider spacing, while a minor second introduces tension due to its close proximity. Composers can use these intervals strategically to develop themes and add expressiveness, ultimately guiding the listener's emotional response.
• Discuss the role of seconds in creating harmonic tension and resolution within compositions.
  • Seconds are essential for creating harmonic tension due to their dissonant nature when played together. This dissonance prompts a resolution to a more consonant interval, generating a satisfying sense of movement in the music. In two-part writing, utilizing seconds effectively can enhance the listener's experience by establishing contrasting moments of tension followed by resolution, making the overall composition more engaging.
• Evaluate the impact of utilizing seconds on the overall structure and emotional expression of a piece in two-part writing.
  • Utilizing seconds can significantly shape the structure and emotional expression within a piece. By integrating both melodic and harmonic seconds, composers create dynamic contrasts that guide the piece's narrative arc. The careful balance between tension and release brought on by these intervals contributes to a deeper emotional engagement with the audience, making the piece more memorable and impactful.

Related terms

Interval: The distance between two pitches, defined by the number of scale degrees they encompass.

Dissonance: A combination of tones that creates a sense of tension or instability, often resolved by consonance.

Consonance: A combination of tones that is harmonious and stable, providing a sense of resolution.