Music A-Level
Harmonic rhythm
What Harmonic rhythm means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Harmonic rhythm
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Reference: AQA
The rate at which chords change, which students must analyse by noting whether chords change rapidly or remain static and discussing the resulting effect on pacing.
The underlying harmonic structure, which remains unchanged during double time even though the perceived tempo doubles.
Whether the harmony is fast-changing or static, with static harmony often pointing to traditional roots.
The rate at which chords change, playing a crucial role in defining the groove and momentum of a song.
Topics that use Harmonic rhythm
- Area of study 2: Pop music - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 5: Jazz - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 6: Contemporary traditional music - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
- Area of study 7: Art music since 1910 - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
Using Harmonic rhythm in the exam
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