Preparation

Definition

In music, preparation refers to the act of setting up a dissonance so that it resolves smoothly into consonance. This concept is particularly important in the context of suspensions and retardations, where a note is sustained from one chord into another, creating tension that is eventually resolved. By preparing the listener for this tension, preparation enhances the emotional and structural impact of harmonic progressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Preparation occurs before the actual dissonance is played, usually through the placement of notes that anticipate the upcoming tension.
2. Effective preparation can make suspensions and retardations feel more natural and satisfying, enhancing the overall flow of a piece.
3. In tonal music, preparation often involves maintaining common tones while introducing new pitches that will create dissonance in the next chord.
4. Composers can use preparation creatively to build suspense and emotional weight, making resolutions more impactful.
5. The use of preparation is essential for composers to maintain coherence in harmonic progressions, guiding listeners through tension and release.

Review Questions

• How does preparation contribute to the effectiveness of suspensions in musical composition?
  • Preparation contributes to the effectiveness of suspensions by creating a sense of anticipation for the listener. By setting up a note that will eventually become dissonant when sustained into the next chord, composers can enhance the emotional weight of the suspension. This builds tension that resolves beautifully when the dissonance finally resolves into consonance, allowing for a more compelling harmonic experience.
• Compare and contrast preparation with other techniques used in tonal music to manage dissonance.
  • Preparation differs from techniques like direct dissonance or passing tones by focusing on anticipating a specific dissonance that will resolve later. While direct dissonance might occur unexpectedly, preparation intentionally sets up tensions through carefully chosen notes. Additionally, while passing tones create brief moments of dissonance within melodic lines, preparation typically deals with harmonic structures and how they transition from one chord to another, leading to smooth resolutions.
• Evaluate the role of preparation in shaping the emotional narrative within a piece of tonal music.
  • Preparation plays a vital role in shaping the emotional narrative by controlling how listeners experience tension and release throughout a piece. When a composer skillfully prepares a dissonance, it allows for greater emotional depth as listeners become invested in the unfolding harmonic journey. This technique helps guide their expectations and enhances their engagement with the music's dramatic arcs. Ultimately, effective use of preparation enriches the overall listening experience by making resolutions feel earned and satisfying.

Related terms

Suspension:

A suspension is a specific type of dissonance that occurs when a note from the previous chord is held over into the next chord, creating a momentary clash with the new chord's harmony before resolving.

Retardation:

Retardation is similar to suspension but involves a note that resolves upwards instead of downwards. This technique adds a different flavor to the dissonance and its resolution.

Dissonance:

Dissonance refers to a combination of notes that clash and create tension, which typically seeks resolution to consonance, enhancing musical expressiveness.