FREE Music Transcription Harmonic Structure Analysis Questions and Answers

Question 1

When analyzing the harmonic structure of a piece, what is the primary purpose of identifying cadences?

Accepted Answer

To delineate formal sections and points of arrival or resolution.

Answer

To determine the key signature of the composition.

Answer

To understand the melodic contour of the main theme.

Answer

To establish the rhythmic pulse and meter of the music.

Question 2

A transcriber is analyzing a passage and encounters a succession of chords: G major, C major, D major, G major. Which of the following best describes the harmonic function of the D major chord in relation to the final G major chord within this progression?

Accepted Answer

Dominant

Answer

Subdominant

Answer

Tonic

Answer

Mediant

Question 3

Which analytical tool is most effective for visualizing the overall harmonic movement and tonal centers across an entire musical form, beyond just individual chord progressions?

Accepted Answer

A harmonic reduction or tonal plan outlining key areas and important cadences.

Answer

Roman numeral analysis of individual measures.

Answer

Detailed melodic contour mapping.

Answer

Rhythmic grid notation.

Question 4

During transcription, you notice a chord progression that moves from a minor i chord to a V7 chord, and then resolves to a major I chord. This specific resolution is characteristic of which harmonic device?

Accepted Answer

Picardy third

Answer

Deceptive cadence

Answer

Plagal cadence

Answer

Half cadence

Question 5

A comprehensive harmonic structure analysis should typically include all of the following elements EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Identification of all non-chord tones.

Answer

Roman numeral analysis of chord progressions.

Answer

Labeling of cadential types.

Answer

Charting of key areas and modulations.

Question 6

In a piece primarily in C major, a passage briefly emphasizes G major chords before returning to C major. How would this shift be most accurately described in terms of harmonic structure?

Accepted Answer

A tonicization of the dominant.

Answer

A complete modulation to G major.

Answer

A subdominant prolongation.

Answer

A deceptive resolution.