Then Chords

Decoding "Then Chords": A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:

Many aspiring and even seasoned musicians grapple with the concept of "then chords," a term not formally defined in music theory but frequently used in songwriting and arranging. This ambiguity often stems from its intuitive rather than explicitly technical nature. Essentially, "then chords" refer to the chords that follow a given chord progression, particularly focusing on the harmonic relationship and overall effect created by the sequence. Understanding "then chords" is crucial for creating compelling melodies, interesting harmonic movement, and ultimately, more engaging music. This article will explore this concept through a question-and-answer format, breaking down the complexities into easily digestible pieces.

I. What exactly are "then chords"?

A: "Then chords" are the chords that follow a given chord (or chord progression). They're not a specific type of chord like a major or minor chord, but rather a descriptive term highlighting the relationship between consecutive chords. This relationship is determined by several factors, including the voice leading (how the notes move between chords), the overall key, and the desired emotional effect. For instance, if the "now" chord is a C major, a "then" chord could be a G major (a dominant chord creating forward motion), an F major (a subdominant chord creating a feeling of resolution), or even an Am (a relative minor, adding a touch of melancholy).

II. How do I choose the right "then chord"?

A: Choosing the right "then chord" depends on your musical goals. Several factors influence this decision:

Key: The key dictates which chords are naturally available and how they relate. Chords within the key will generally sound more consonant and stable.
Function: Chords have functions (tonic, dominant, subdominant). Moving from a tonic to a dominant creates tension, while moving from a dominant to a tonic releases that tension. This creates a sense of harmonic resolution.
Voice Leading: Smooth voice leading, where notes move between chords with minimal leaps, generally produces a more pleasing sound.
Emotional Impact: Different chord progressions evoke different emotions. Major chords tend to sound brighter and happier, while minor chords can evoke sadness or tension. Experimenting with the types of chords you choose will affect the overall mood and feel of your piece.

III. What are some common "then chord" progressions?

A: Many common chord progressions rely on the interplay between "now" and "then" chords. Here are a few examples:

I-IV-V-I (Tonic-Subdominant-Dominant-Tonic): This is a fundamental progression in many genres, offering a clear sense of resolution. If "now" is C Major (I), then IV is F Major, V is G Major, and the "then" chords are thus F, G, and finally C.
ii-V-I (Supertonic-Dominant-Tonic): This progression creates a stronger sense of tension and release than the I-IV-V-I progression, frequently used in jazz and blues. If "now" is Dm (ii in C Major), "then" chords would be G7 (V) and C Major (I).
vi-IV-I-V: A slightly more sophisticated progression, often adding a touch of melancholy.

IV. How can I practice choosing "then chords"?

A: The best way to practice choosing "then chords" is through experimentation. Try:

Improvising: Play a chord and then try to find chords that follow naturally. Listen to the sound and assess whether it creates the desired effect.
Analyzing existing songs: Listen carefully to your favorite songs and try to identify the chord progressions. Analyze the relationship between each chord and the next, paying attention to the voice leading and emotional impact.
Using chord progression generators: Many online tools can generate random chord progressions, which you can then analyze and modify. This provides a structured way to experiment with various "then chord" possibilities.

V. Can "then chords" be used outside of simple chord progressions?

A: Absolutely! The concept of "then chords" applies to more complex harmonic structures, including:

Modal interchange: Borrowing chords from parallel keys can create interesting harmonic surprises.
Secondary dominants: Using dominant chords leading to chords other than the tonic adds complexity and interest.
Passing chords: These chords briefly connect two more important chords, often adding color and enriching the harmonic progression.

Takeaway:

Mastering "then chords" isn't about memorizing specific rules, but developing a deep understanding of harmonic relationships, voice leading, and the emotional impact of different chord choices. Through consistent practice and attentive listening, you can significantly enhance your songwriting and arranging abilities, creating more compelling and engaging music.

FAQs:

1. How do I deal with chromaticism in "then chord" selection? Chromatic chords (chords with notes outside the key) can add color and tension. Use them sparingly and strategically to highlight specific moments.

2. Can I use the same chord twice in a row? Yes, but it often creates a sense of stasis. It can be effective for emphasis or to create a feeling of suspended time but should be used judiciously.

3. How important is voice leading when choosing "then chords"? Good voice leading is crucial for smooth transitions and a pleasing sound. Avoid large leaps between notes whenever possible.

4. Are there any resources to help me learn more about advanced harmonic techniques? Many books and online courses focus on advanced harmony and jazz theory. These will help you understand the underlying principles guiding the selection of “then chords” in more complex settings.

5. How do I know if my "then chord" choices are effective? Listen critically to your music. Does the progression sound natural and pleasing? Does it create the desired emotional effect? If not, experiment with different choices until you achieve the desired result. Feedback from others can also be invaluable.

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Then Chords

Decoding "Then Chords": A Comprehensive Guide

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