Introduction to Harmonic Progression and Functional Harmony
Harmonic progression and functional harmony are foundational concepts in AP Music Theory, shaping how chords move and create musical phrases. Understanding these principles helps composers and musicians craft coherent, expressive music.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- What is Harmonic Progression?
- Functional Harmony: Tonic, Dominant, and Predominant Chords
- Types of Cadences and Their Resolutions
Let’s dive in!
1. What is Harmonic Progression?
Harmonic progression refers to the movement from one chord to another in a piece of music. In tonal music (like classical and pop), chords follow predictable patterns that create tension and resolution.
Common Chord Progressions:
- I – IV – V – I (Classic Tonal Progression)
- ii – V – I (Common in Jazz)
- I – V – vi – IV (Pop Music Progression)
These progressions work because of functional harmony, where chords have specific roles.
2. Functional Harmony: The Roles of Chords
In functional harmony, chords are categorized into three main functions:
a) Tonic Function (Stability, Home)
- Chords:Â I, vi, sometimes iii
- Role:Â Provides a sense of rest and resolution.
b) Predominant Function (Prepares Dominant)
- Chords:Â IV, ii, sometimes vi
- Role:Â Leads to the dominant, creating tension.
c) Dominant Function (Tension, Needs Resolution)
- Chords: V, vii°
- Role:Â Creates a strong pull back to tonic.
Example: IV – V – I (Plagal & Authentic Motion)
- IV (Predominant) → V (Dominant) → I (Tonic)
This progression is fundamental in Western music.
3. Cadences: Musical Punctuation Marks
A cadence is a chord progression that ends a musical phrase, like punctuation in a sentence. There are four primary types:
a) Authentic Cadence (Strong Resolution)
- Perfect Authentic (PAC): V → I, root position, tonic in melody.
- Imperfect Authentic (IAC): V → I, but inverted or melody not on tonic.
b) Plagal Cadence (Amen Cadence)
- IV → I
- Often used in hymns (e.g., “Amen”).
c) Half Cadence (Incomplete Feeling)
- Ends on V
- Creates a sense of pause, not finality.
d) Deceptive Cadence (Surprise Resolution)
- V → vi (instead of I)
- Evokes an unexpected twist.
Conclusion: Why This Matters in AP Music Theory
Understanding harmonic progression, functional harmony, and cadences is crucial for:
- Analyzing music (AP Music Theory exam)
- Composing original pieces
- Improving improvisation skills
Master these concepts, and you’ll unlock deeper musical expression
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