Bass and Melodic Lines

Question 1

bass line

Answer 1

• smooth and conjunct in beginning and middle
• disjunct and skips at the end to show harmonic progression in cadence points
• bass line usually on tonic or median on the I chord

Question 2

three note closing statements typically found in this style of writing

Answer 2

• conclusive: sounds like the piece is over
• less conclusive: V-I cadence, but the V is not in root position
• inconclusive: ending on the dominant. it sounds like the piece will continue

Question 3

beginning of phrases

Answer 3

• opening of phrases have similar options as the cadence. keeping tonic and dominant chords with Bass tones being either tonic or te 3rd, will help establish the tonic of the key for the piece
• anacrusis gives more options
• can use a pick up to create a V
• I motion for the first two chords to establish the key

Question 4

examples with bass and soprano lines moved in _______ motion. at cadences, the motion of the bass line is ______

Answer 4

• contrary; disjunct

Question 5

the strongest moment of every phrase is the _______. In the melodic line, the most conclusive cadences end on ______ as the bass progresses from dominant to _______

Answer 5

• cadence; tonic; tonic

Question 6

before analyzing music, the tonality and implied harmonies must be established by looking at the:

Answer 6

• key
• 1st note
• last 2 notes

Question 7

the bass line in which style often ends with V to I

Answer 7

• disjunct