Here are terms we use concerning harmony:
Harmony – two or more notes played together at the same time
Interval – the space between two notes
Chord – three or more notes played together at the same time
Triad – a chord played consisting of the root, third and fifth of a scale.
Sharp – raises a note ½ step
Ex: f – f#
Flat – lowers a note ½ step
Ex: b -b
Natural – cancels the action of a flat or sharp
Ex: F# - F
Key – the particular scale on which a piece of music or a section of it is based, named for its tonic (I) or key-tone. (For example, the key of D indicates that the major scale starting and ending on the tone D is being used.)
Key Signature – an indication of key consisting of sharps or flats placed on the staff at the beginning of a composition.
Harmonic Ostinato – a repetition of a chordal progression throughout a piece.
Ex: I – IV – V – I
05/18/2003