Playing Chords One Note at a Time

October 22nd, 2008 by admin

When you add one note to a pair of different notes, you get a sound that is two or three times fuller. The sound is not enhanced by the bare 50%. It sounds much bigger, fuller, more complete. Why is this so?

Is it just a cultural factor of Western harmony? Or is there a scientific explanation involving overtones, cross vibrations and harmonic perception?

Both factors may be in play here. I lean towards the scientific opinion that the output of three harmonically related tones exceeds the input.

If you play a musical instrument that produces chords you must already know a little music theory. Maybe its only intuitive, but you have soaked it up automatically just by playing chords.

If your instrument is melodic and plays one note at a time, you have to think about chords to get an understanding. The music theory you learn can be applied to your instrument, even if its your voice.

In academic music, theory is oriented towards keyboard. If you play flute you are on your own to relate music theory to what you do in the practice room. You may only play a chord one note at a time, but you can still identify it.

Theory is most useful in certain kinds of music that permit or encourage improvisation. But even in classical music, an understanding of theory can help you follow what the composer is doing. You can understand and emphasize the dramatic quality of the melodic line as enhanced by the chord progression.

I have been putting a series of short music theory lessons for fiddlers on YouTube. I intend to continue until I’ve covered playing 12 bar blues. But, I may do a little more on this subject. I find it intensely interesting.