Suggested Learning Resources
- Some theorists analyze sections of pieces with a ‘two-tiered’ method
- The first tier is the literal accounting for the chords, usually with
roman numerals.
- The second tier is the functional analysis, which is usually a broader
interpretation of function of a piece of music.
- I chords are most commonly associated with Tonic functional areas.
- V chords are most commonly associated with Dominant functional areas.
- Appearance of a I or V chord does not always mean change of functional
area. For example, if there are three chords in a measure, and they quickly move
from I to V64 to I . since the V is “sandwiched” between the two I chords (also
since the V chord is in second inversion, softening its harmonic function), the music
may have not had enough time to establish a Dominant feel, thus the entire section
would labeled as part of the Tonic area, or having a tonic function. (This concept
is discussed further in later objectives when additional functional areas are introduced
and 6/4 chords are discussed in detail).
https://youtu.be/3Z9rU6mBtog
Objective 18.2: Define, identify, and label Tonic area and Dominant area in terms
of harmonic function