Old Music Theory

Theory of the Great Composers

4.0 Introduction to Chord Progressions

NOTE: These Rules concern all chords, except for some modifications imposed by the use of dissonant chords, which are the result of the rules relating to those chords.

A Progression is the passage from one chord to another. The progression is always designated by the name of the interval between the roots of the chords.

Thus, the two following chords:

is a progression of a fourth below.

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