MusicianCV · TRConnecting targets with a passing tone
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Harmony and melody
A passing tone connects two harmonic targets by stepwise motion. Identify the supporting chord before calling a note non-chordal: the same pitch can be a chord tone elsewhere. Function belongs to context, not the note name alone.
Over a sustained C-major chord, C–D–E provides a simple example with D connecting two chord tones. Not every short or weak-beat note is a passing tone. Check its approach, departure and rhythmic placement before applying the label.
Example
Over F major, G in F–G–A can act as a passing tone.
Connecting targets with a passing toneC → D → E
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What is the middle note of E–F–G over C major?
Answer
F; in this stepwise context it can function as a passing tone.Related topics
Neighbour tones and return · Motive: a small musical identityReferences
Music Theory for the 21st-Century Classroom
Subject-expert review pending.