Passing Tone

Definition

A passing tone is a non-chord note that connects two chord tones by step, creating smooth melodic motion. This note typically occurs between two stable tones in a melody and helps to fill in the gaps, making the line more fluid and expressive. Passing tones add embellishment and can enhance the harmonic progression by providing a sense of movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Passing tones are often considered 'weak' beats in the rhythmic structure, usually occurring on off-beats or between stronger beats.
2. They can be either diatonic (belonging to the key) or chromatic (not belonging to the key), adding color and variety to melodies.
3. In classical music, passing tones often appear in sequences, helping to establish and transition between different harmonic areas.
4. The use of passing tones is common across various musical styles, including jazz, pop, and folk music, demonstrating their versatility.
5. Passing tones can create tension that resolves into consonance when they move to a stable chord tone, contributing to the emotional impact of a piece.

Review Questions

• How do passing tones contribute to melodic motion in music compositions?
  • Passing tones contribute to melodic motion by connecting chord tones through stepwise movement, which enhances the overall fluidity of a melody. They fill in the gaps between stable notes and create a smoother transition from one tone to another. By incorporating passing tones, composers can craft melodies that are more expressive and engaging, as these notes provide a sense of movement and continuity.
• Compare and contrast passing tones with neighbor tones in terms of their function within a melody.
  • While both passing tones and neighbor tones are non-chord notes that enrich melodies, they serve different functions. Passing tones connect two chord tones by moving stepwise between them, creating smooth transitions. In contrast, neighbor tones move away from a chord tone and return, adding embellishment without directly connecting two stable notes. This difference highlights how each type of non-chord tone plays a unique role in shaping melodic lines.
• Evaluate the impact of passing tones on harmonic progression within a piece of music.
  • Passing tones significantly impact harmonic progression by introducing tension and facilitating smoother transitions between chords. When they occur between stable chord tones, they can create expectations for resolution as they lead into consonant notes. This tension adds emotional depth to the music and allows for greater expressiveness. By analyzing how passing tones function within harmonic progressions, musicians can better understand their role in enhancing overall musical narratives.

Related terms

Neighbor Tone:

A neighbor tone is a non-chord note that steps away from a chord tone and then returns to the same chord tone, creating a decorative effect in the melody.

Chord Tone: A chord tone is a note that belongs to the harmony being played, forming the foundation of the chord structure.

Melodic Motion: Melodic motion refers to the way in which a melody moves through pitches, whether by step (small intervals), leap (larger intervals), or repetition.