2023年3月30日 · The non-chord tones (NCT) are also called the non-harmonic tones and the embellishing tones. They are defined in Western music as the note or tone in a piece of music that does not form part of the chord being played out at the time.

Nonchord tones are most often discussed in the context of the common practice period of classical music, but the term can also be used in the analysis of other types of tonal music, such as Western popular music.

Non-chord tones are notes that do not belong to the chord. Sometimes referred to as “embellishing tones” and “non-harmonic tones,” non-chord tones are classified by how they are approached and left (either by same tone, step, or leap).

When we analyze non-chord tones, we label a single pitch that does not belong to the chord, however, we are actually classifying the motion between the non-chord tone and its surrounding pitches, and you can see this in these straightforward definitions:

Understanding non-chord tones is critical in increasing the accuracy and speed of your tonal analysis. When looking at pieces of music, specifically those that have complicated textures, you will often face difficult decisions about which tones are functional to the chord and progression and which tones are embellishing those functional tones.

This video introduces the concept of non-chord tones, meaning embellishing tones that we have excluded in our harmonic analysis up to this point. Specific types covered in this video include the passing tone (PT), the neighboring tone (NT), and the suspension (SUS).

A passing tone is a melodic embellishment (typically a non-chord tone) that occurs between two stable tones (typically chord tones), creating stepwise motion. It is approached by stepwise motion and left by stepwise motion in the same direction.

2024年4月23日 · In this lesson, I walk through the official terms for non-chord tones in classical music theory analysis. In classical composition classes, non-chord tones are referred to with these specific names. I give examples of a few well known songs, along with sheet music for us to see which melody notes are non-chord tones.

2024年3月4日 · In the realm of harmony, nonchord tones, often called non-harmonic tones, add color, tension, and interest, much like spices do in cooking. Let's break down some of the most common types of nonchord tones in a way that's easy to digest. I will use simple musical examples in the key of C Major to illustrate each type of nonchord tone.

Non-chord tones add depth and color to melodies, enhancing harmonic progressions. They create tension, motion, and interest, connecting chord tones in unique ways. Understanding these tones is essential for analyzing and appreciating the richness of musical compositions.