Music Transcription Harmonic Progression Analysis 4

Question 1

What is the primary difference between a plagal cadence and a perfect authentic cadence?

Accepted Answer

Plagal ends IV–I; perfect authentic ends V–I

Answer

A plagal cadence moves IV–I (often called the 'Amen' cadence), while a perfect authentic cadence moves V–I with both chords in root position.

Question 2

When transcribing a chord that contains the notes C, E, G, B♭, and D, what is it most likely called?

Accepted Answer

C dominant 9

Answer

C, E, G, B♭, D forms a C dominant 9 chord (C9): C major triad + minor 7th (B♭) + major 9th (D).

Question 3

Which harmonic device involves a chord moving up or down by a half step to create chromatic voice leading?

Accepted Answer

Chromatic planing

Answer

Chromatic planing moves chords in parallel by half steps, maintaining chord quality while shifting chromatically.

Question 4

In the progression Am–G–F–E (or i–VII–VI–V in A minor), what type of progression is this?

Accepted Answer

Andalusian cadence

Answer

The descending Am–G–F–E pattern is known as the Andalusian cadence, common in flamenco and classical music.

Question 5

A German augmented sixth chord (Ger+6) typically resolves to which chord?

Accepted Answer

The dominant V chord (often via a 6/4)

Answer

The German augmented sixth chord resolves outward by half steps to the dominant V, often with an intermediate 6/4 to avoid parallel fifths.

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