Harmony reference
Chord Progressions
A chord progression is an ordered sequence of chords. Its musical effect comes from how harmony, bass motion, voice leading, rhythm, and repetition interact over time.
Developing reference
Overview
Progressions can establish a key, support a melody, create contrast, prolong a single harmony, or move between tonal centres. A list of chord symbols describes content, but not the full effect of pacing, inversion, voicing, and phrasing.
Harmonic Organisation
Roman numerals describe chord roots and qualities relative to a key, making patterns easier to compare across transpositions. Functional labels can add a second layer by describing stability, preparation, and resolution.
Voice Leading and Rhythm
Smooth or deliberately contrasting note motion can make the same chord sequence feel very different. Harmonic rhythm—the rate at which chords change—also shapes momentum independently of the notated meter.
Applications
Progression study supports accompaniment, composition, arrangement, improvisation, transcription, and ear training. Analysing both chord identity and movement prevents memorised sequences from becoming detached from their musical context.