Harmonic rhythm addresses the rate in which chord changes occur within a piece of music. On the surface, it seems like a simple concept. On a deeper level there's so much more to discuss. So let's discuss!
EXAMPLES
HARMONIC RHYTHM
-Harmonic rhythm is the rate at which chords change.
-We use the terms slow and fast to define how frequently or infrequently chord changes occur.
SLOW-Chords change every measure or less frequently.
FAST- Chords change every beat or more frequently.
RELATION TO TEMPO
-In general, a faster harmonic rhythm adds motion and activity. A slower harmonic rhythm can result in a more static effect.
-In general, though there is no direct correlation between harmonic rhythm and tempo. However, faster tempos often feature slower harmonic rhythms and slower tempos often produce faster harmonic rhythm.
IRREGULAR HARMONIC RHYTHM
-A regular harmonic rhythm can be pleasing and comforting in its own way.
-Changes in harmonic rhythm can add variety and prevent predictability.
-In many cases, different sections of a piece will contain contrasting harmonic rhythms. But these rhythms can also vary within a section.
-Composers will often accelerate their use of harmonic rhythm as they move toward a cadence.
LEVELS OF HARMONIC RHYTHM
-On the surface level, you have the chords and chord changes. This level is bound to the melodic and rhythmic activity.
-On a deeper level, you have the overall form represented by these chords and a “zooming out” of the overall functions. This level is more represents the phrase and period structure.
-In this exercise, the placement and duration of these harmonies is preserved.
-It may be useful to keep these notes in their proper registers to help identify the melodic structure.
METRIC REDUCTION
-METRIC REDUCTION is the process of simplifying a musical texture down to its basic harmonic and melodic structure.
-This reduction process is useful for both analysis and performance because it provides a better understanding of the music.
-This process is carried out by removing non chord tones and condensing arpeggios into block chords.
HARMONIC ACCENT
-The HARMONIC ACCENT is an accent caused by harmonic progression. This should not be confused with METRIC ACCENT.
-These two types of accent, metric and harmonic, operate independently from one another.
-When they operate together, they are said to be of METRIC HARMONIC CONGRUENCE. When they operate apart, they are said to be of METRIC HARMONIC CONFLICT.
HARMONIC SYNCOPATION
-Harmonic syncopation occurs when a chord begins on a weak beat to continues on to the next strong beat.
-For now this should be avoided, as it weakens metric character of a progression.