What is Tonal Harmony?
Tonal harmony refers to a musical system based on the hierarchy of pitches and chords, primarily centered around a tonic note or chord. This concept, predominant in Western classical music since the Baroque period, emphasizes relationships between chords that lead to a sense of resolution or tension within a piece.
In tonal harmony, the major and minor scales form the backbone of the tonal system. Each key comprises seven distinct chords, derived from the scale's notes. These chords are typically built in thirds and include triads (three-note chords) and seventh chords (four-note chords).
Essential to tonal harmony is the concept of functional harmony, where chords serve specific functions within a key: the tonic (I), dominant (V), and subdominant (IV) are the primary pillars. The tonic provides stability, the dominant creates tension that resolves back to the tonic, and the subdominant acts as a bridge.
Chord progressions are central to tonal harmony, creating expected movements that guide listeners through a piece. For example, the progression from the tonic to the dominant and back to the tonic (I-V-I) is a fundamental element of tonal music.
Over time, composers have explored and expanded the boundaries of tonal harmony, incorporating chromaticism and modal interchange. However, the core principles remain vital to understanding the structure and emotion conveyed in much of Western music.