Old Music Theory

Theory of the Great Composers

Exercises: Chord Progressions in Root Position

Listed below are proposed upper parts, or given melodies, intended to be harmonized. Add a satisfactory harmony, changing the chord at each note where the root is always in the Bass, according to the guidelines prescribed in this chapter.

First, compose the Bass, then complete the harmony by filling the intermediate parts. The aim of these lessons is to build a good progression in the root position but also to complete the effect of these progressions by a good realization.

Each lesson must begin with the tonic chord and end with the same chord preceded by the dominant chord.

Once finished, copy the Basses from the Appendix, placing the Bass under its corresponding melody. Create a realization with this new Bass, then compare both realizations.

Given melodies.

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