Music A-Level
Classical harmonic language
What Classical harmonic language means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of Classical harmonic language
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Reference: AQA
The harmonic language includes diminished sevenths and modulation to related keys like the dominant (F major), with a dominant pedal building tension before the recapitulation.
Topics that use Classical harmonic language
- Area of study 1: Western classical tradition 1650–1910 (compulsory) - Strand B: The operas of Mozart (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Characterisation through melody
- Characterisation through music
- Classical orchestration techniques
- Dance forms in opera
- Dramatic pacing
- Dramatic pacing and structure
- Ensemble writing and polyphony
- Harmonic and tonal structures
Using Classical harmonic language in the exam
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