Ranking dominant chord alterations by dissonance
Ranking Dominant Chord Alterations by Dissonance
Introduction
Dominant Chord Alterations
Subjectivity of Dissonance Ranking
Factors Influencing Dissonance
Resolution Tendencies and Dissonance
Analyzing Dissonance of Dominant Chord Alterations
Conclusion
Sources:
- “Ranking dominant chord alterations by dissonance” – Music: Practice & Theory Stack Exchange. Available at: https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/67293/ranking-dominant-chord-alterations-by-dissonance
- “Altered and Extended Chords” – OPEN MUSIC THEORY. Available at: https://viva.pressbooks.pub/openmusictheory/chapter/altered-and-extended-dominant-chords/
- “Navigating Altered Dominants: Strategies for the V7#9 Chord” – Jazzadvice. Available at: https://www.jazzadvice.com/lessons/navigating-altered-dominants-strategies-for-the-v79-chord/
FAQs
Ranking Dominant Chord Alterations by Dissonance
What are dominant chord alterations?
Dominant chord alterations involve modifying specific chord tones of a dominant seventh chord, such as the fifth, ninth, eleventh, or thirteenth. These alterations create dissonant sounds and add color and tension to the chord.
How is the dissonance of dominant chord alterations determined?
The dissonance of dominant chord alterations can vary depending on the specific alteration and its context within a musical progression. Factors such as voice leading, harmonic function, and the overall tonal context influence the perceived dissonance of the alteration.
Are there commonly used dominant chord alterations?
Yes, there are several commonly used dominant chord alterations. These include the augmented fifth (#5), diminished fifth (b5), sharp ninth (#9), flat ninth (b9), sharp eleventh (#11), and flat thirteenth (b13). Each alteration contributes to the overall dissonance and character of the chord.
Is there a definitive ranking of dominant chord alterations by dissonance?
The ranking of dominant chord alterations by dissonance is subjective and can vary among different musicians and theorists. While some alterations may generally be considered more dissonant than others, the perception of dissonance is influenced by personal preference, cultural context, and stylistic conventions.
How do resolution tendencies affect the dissonance of dominant chord alterations?
Resolution tendencies play a significant role in the perceived dissonance of dominant chord alterations. For example, raised fifths often resolve upward by step, while lowered fifths tend to resolve downward by step. These resolution tendencies contribute to the stability and dissonance of the altered dominant chord.
Can dominant chord alterations be analyzed and compared using specific techniques?
Yes, dominant chord alterations can be analyzed and compared using various musical parameters. Pitch class sets, interval sets, and prime sets are among the analytical tools that can provide insights into the dissonant properties of specific alterations and their relationships to other chords and tonal structures.
How do musicians approach improvisation over dominant chord alterations?
Musicians develop their own strategies for improvising over dominant chord alterations. These strategies may include using specific scales, arpeggios, and melodic patterns that complement the dissonance and characteristics of the altered chord. Experimentation and ear training are essential for developing improvisational fluency.
Are there any guidelines for using dominant chord alterations in composition?
While there are no strict rules, composers often consider the tonal context, harmonic progression, and desired emotional effect when using dominant chord alterations in composition. Understanding the dissonance and resolution tendencies of the alterations can help composers create effective and expressive musical passages.