Harmony Checklist (Leaving Cert Music): Revision Notes

Harmony Checklist

Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure your harmonic writing is clear, balanced, and adheres to the requirements of the LC Music syllabus.

Chords and Progressions

• Know Primary Triads: Familiarise yourself with I, IV, and V chords in major and minor keys.
• Use Secondary Triads: Incorporate ii, iii, and vi chords to add variety and depth.
• Root Position and Inversions: Use first and second inversions (e.g., I6 or I6/4) to improve voice leading.
• Smooth Progressions: Ensure logical and fluent movement between chords.
• Avoid Bad Progressions: Prevent parallel fifths, octaves, and unrelated chords.

Cadences

• Perfect Cadence (V-I): Use to create strong resolution.
• Imperfect Cadence (I-V or IV-V): Add tension to lead into the next phrase.
• Plagal Cadence (IV-I): Use for a softer, reflective conclusion.
• Interrupted Cadence (V-vi): Include for surprise and contrast.

Tonality

• Key Signature: Use appropriate chords for the given key, ensuring sharps or flats are applied correctly.
• Modulation: Modulate to related keys like the dominant or relative minor for contrast.

Voice Leading

• Independent Voices: Keep all voices moving smoothly and avoid crossing parts.
• Stepwise Motion: Prioritise stepwise movement, especially in inner voices and bass lines.
• Resolve Leading Tones: Ensure the 7th-degree resolves to the tonic in V-I progressions.
• Avoid Parallel Fifths and Octaves: Check all parts for this common error.

Bass Notes

• Logical Bass Lines: Use stepwise motion or small leaps for fluency.
• Inversions: Employ first and second inversions to create smoother transitions and variety.
• Strong Cadential Bass Notes: Ensure bass notes support cadences effectively.

Inner Parts and Texture

• Balance Between Voices: Ensure all parts contribute equally to the harmony.
• Consecutive Thirds: Use in moderation for smooth harmonic motion.
• Doubling Notes: In the root position, double the root; in first inversion, double the third.

Expression and Style

• Match the Style: Write harmonies appropriate to the given opening or melody style.
• Add Interest: Use passing notes, suspensions, or chromatic movement sparingly to enhance expression.
• Avoid Overcomplication: Keep harmonies simple and clear while maintaining interest.