Old Music Theory

Theory of the Great Composers

10.8 Enharmonic Modulations

Enharmonic Modulations should be used with extreme caution, as the enharmonic interval often provokes hesitation and lack of precision in vocal performances and non-tempered instruments.

To overcome these issues, we must sometimes allow one or more chords to appear to the inconsistent to the eye, but still sounds pleasing to the ear. Example:

This type of writing often ensures the accuracy and ease of execution of the parts, but disturbs how the score is read. For the organ/piano, the same example must be written correctly, as follows:

The student, in all cases, will write the chords with enharmonic changes correctly.

BOOK I: Chords

Introduction

Preliminary Notions — Basic Concepts

Part I. Consonant Chords

1. Triads
2. Realization of Harmony
3. Tonality of Chords
4. Chord Progressions
5. Chord Modifications, Placement, and Duration
6. Figured Bass
7. Triad Inversions
8. Phrases, Period, and Form
9. Cadences
10. Modulation
11. Harmonic Marches
Supplementary Chapter for Consonant Chords

Part II. Dissonant Chords

13. Dissonant Chords
14. Seventh Chords
15. Ninth Chords
16. Alterations
17. Altered Chords

Supplementary Chapter

Appendix

BOOK II: Accidental Notes

Part I. First Class Accidental Notes

20. Delays