MUSIC THEORY
Music 221
Mod 32
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Subject of the Day: Review of Chord Spelling and Part Writing
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Reading Assignment: None
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Written Assignment: Chord Spelling Review and Part Writing
(handout)
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Semester Schedule
Remember the structure of chords when spelling them.
For example, if asked to spell a D major triad, recall that the thirds
are major on the bottom and minor on top. Also the fifth above the
root is perfect. When given a triad in a particular key, be sure
that the triad uses only notes that would occur diatonically in
that particular key. In a major key this would mean only notes that
are within the key signature; in minor keys, the notes that are within
the key signature plus the leading tone.
In the examples above, the vi chord in A major, spelled F# A C#, contains
notes that are within the key signature of A major (3 sharps: F#,
C#, G#). The viio chord in D minor has only notes that
are within the key signature of D minor (1 flat: Bb) plus the leading tone
(C#) of the key.
Voice Leading in Three Voices
In three voices be sure that each chord has at least a root and a third.
Usually all three notes of a triad will be present, but occasionally the
fifth of the chord may be omitted, in which case the root is normally doubled.
When ascending roots a third apart occur, the second chord needs to
be a complete triad. (see mod 29 )
In chords whose roots are a second apart, the texture of the two chords
will change from complete triad to incomplete triad or from incomplete
triad to complete. (see mod 30 )
This page is designed to assist students enrolled
in Music 221 - Music Theory. If you had difficulty in class with
the contents of this lesson, this may help you to comprehend the material.
If you missed the presentation in class, this may help to update the material
for you.
If you still have questions, contact Dr. Bartolotta
at wbartolo@odu.edu
William S. Bartolotta
Music Department
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA 23529