Pop - Beatles - Eleanor Rigby - HARMONY

Question 1

What two chords is Eleanor Rigby built on?

Answer 1

E min and C major

share the same aeolian scale

Question 2

What other chords are used in Eleanor Rigby?

Answer 2

Bars 61+62 - “no one was saved”

C maj is replaced with A min with minor 7th

Question 3

Describe the harmonic rhythm of Eleanor Rigby?

Answer 3

Harmonic rhythm is slow BUT pace of song is brisk:

• Intro - chords alternate every 2 bars, starting C maj
• Verse - 3 bars E min, 2 bars C maj
• Refrain - built on E min throughout:
  sustained E in cellos
  chromatic counter-melody in violas featuring Db
  (dorian C#)

Question 4

What harmonic devices are used to contribute to overpowering pessimism of Eleanor Rigby?

Answer 4

The relentless, closed-in harmonic scheme contributes to the pessimism