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CHAPTER 7
Harmonic Progression and the Sequence
This chapter begins with an introduction to melodic and harmonic sequences, using this topic as a means to explain
the norms of tonal harmonic progressions. We take the root movement of the descending fifth as the starting point
from which to develop diagrams of normative root movements in major and minor modes. It is worthwhile
emphasizing that the harmonic “functions” of tonal harmony developed slowly and were the result of contrapuntal,
acoustical, and historical factors, among others.
The chapter continues with further discussion of harmonic sequences, discussing some of the more common root
patterns and their variants, and it ends with a brief tutorial on harmonizing simple melodies.
The material in this chapter should be reinforced aurally as much as possible, probably by playing progressions at
the piano. Most students are able to recognize the harmonic clichés of tonal music, and those who cannot need to
become more sensitized to them. It is also important to keep up regular practice with chord spelling and partwriting
as this chapter is studied. A useful exercise is to lead the class in the composition of a chorale phrase, from
progression (avoiding ii0 and vii0 for now) to melody to four–part setting, which should then be sung by the class.
Answers to Selected Exercises
Exercise 7-1
A. 1. V or vii0 2. IV 3. vi or IV 4. IV 5. I 6. IV
J. 1. iq 2. iie 3. iii 4. III 5. Vw 6. vii-r 7. vii-e
Chapter 7
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_____________________________ ____________________________
(section) (name)
Chapter 7 Quiz
A. Define the following terms.
sequence
diatonic sequence
circle–of–fifths progression
B. Fill in the blanks with the chord or chords that would be likely to follow the given chord in a minor key. Be sure
each roman numeral reflects the quality (major, minor, diminished) of the chord.
ii0 ____ or ____ V ____ or ____
III ____ or ____ VI ____ or ____
iv ____ or ____ or ____ or ____ vii0 ____
VII ____
C. Analyze the chords specified by this figured bass, and add inner voices to make a four–part texture. Bracket all
circle–of–fifths progressions, even those that contain only two chords.
Chapter 7
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Key for Chapter 7 Quiz
A. Define the following terms.
sequence
A pattern that is repeated immediately in the same voice (or voices), but beginning on a different
pitch class.
B. Fill in the blanks with the chord or chords that would be likely to follow the given chord in a minor key. Be sure
each roman numeral reflects the quality (major, minor, diminished) of the chord.
C. Analyze the chords specified by this figured bass, and add inner voices to make a four–part texture. Bracket all
circle–of–fifths progressions, even those that contain only two chords.