Embellishing Tones: Passing and Neighbor

Question 1

big idea

Answer 1

• this unit is a return to melodic embellishments
• seldom is music actually written in block voice, all voices moving together
• we will explore new varieties of non-chord tones

Question 2

embellishments

Answer 2

• can create some difficulties when analyzing music using roman numerals
• looking at a beat of music, stacking it in thirds, and assigning a number can be frustrating unless you look for the embellishments that may be in use
• the beauty and interest in music comes from a solid harmonic progression and well placed embellishments
• when analyzing, use the notes in the chords and what would make sense in terms of what is a chord member and what is typical harmonic progression
• • most of the time, you will be able to argue why you analyzed it this way

Question 3

passing tones

Answer 3

• most passing and neighbor tones are unaccented
• need to have tension and release, unaccented passing tones create temporary rhythmic tension
• accented passing and neighbor tones are more difficult to use, but can be rewarding when done correctly
• • the most common use is to follow an unaccented passing tone to fill in a skip of a fourth

Question 4

neighbor tones

Answer 4

• use to relieve the repetition of the same note

- provide more variety

Question 5

the key to writing embellishment well is to start with a solid harmonic progression

Answer 5

• start with the harmonic progression
• then add the embellishments
• • most seem obvious on where they should be
• the embellishments should feel like a natural extension

Question 6

notes that don’t belong to the chord being sounded but create musical interest and motion are called _______

Answer 6

• embellishing tones

Question 7

if an embellishing tone is preceded by and followed by the same note, it is a ___________

Answer 7

• neighbor tone

Question 8

most music is written in block voicing, with every voice moving simultaneously

Answer 8

• false