August
1998: Introduction To Chords - Unit
2
Harmonizing A Melody With Primary And Secondary Chords
Following is the melody of Amazing Grace:
C F
A F A
G F
D C
C F
A F A
G C
A C
A C A F
C D
F F D C
C F
A F A
G F
Following are the primary and secondary chords built on the steps of the F scale:
|
|
C |
D |
E |
F |
G |
A |
Bb |
C |
|
|
A |
Bb |
C |
D |
E |
F |
G |
A |
|
CHORD NAMES: |
F |
G |
A |
Bb |
C |
D |
E |
F |
|
PRIMARY CHORDS: |
I |
|
|
IV |
V |
|
|
|
|
SECONDARY CHORDS: |
|
ii |
iii |
|
|
vi |
|
|
The notes of the melody fall into little rhythmic groups. For each group find the triads that contain the same note names as the melody. For example: C and F are contained in the F chord. A F A are contained in the F chord and the D minor chord.
However some of the groups do not match up. For example: G and F are not in any chord at the same time.
Sometimes choosing a chord is determined by what note you match it up with. For example: If you harmonize the G (in G F) you have to use a C or G minor chord. But if you play G alone then harmonize the F you may use an F, Bb or D minor chord.
It is not necessary to play a chord on every note of a melody. In the case of Amazing Grace you might find that the harmony fits best with the last note of each group.
Ocassionally you may also want to use more than one harmony within a group. For example: In the last G F group you may want to use a C chord with the G and an F chord with the F.
Experiment with various combinations and find one you like.
See you next month.
Stephanie
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