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In a Noteshell

3.2 Cycle of Fifths

  • Like we’ve seen, the V-I couple is the base of the tonal system.
  • This V-I relationship can be extrapolated to other chord relationships.
    • i.e. I-IV, and so on.

The cycle of fifths can move in 2 directions:

  1. Authentic: V-I
  2. Plagal: I-V

There are 3 stages to a harmonic progression:

  1. Approach the dominant
  2. Dominant
  3. Resolution

Principles for building a harmonic scheme that’s tonal and coherent:

  1. I can move to any degree
  2. All degrees can move to V
  3. You can always move in the authentic direction (clock-wise)

Substitutions

Some chords in tonal music can be substituted because they share similar “tonal functions”, here are some of them:

  • I can be replaced by III, VI, or IV6
  • II can be replaced by IV

Hierarchy of Progressions

This is a summary of the system that Schönberg came up with, that is based on intervals.

StrongWeak
Asc. 4rthAsc. 3rd
Desc 3rdAsc. 5
Asc & Desc 2 (from or to V)

Weak Progressions

You CAN use them, but you might want to keep this in mind:

  • Don’t chain them (I-III-V)
  • Step-wise voice-leading
  • If you can avoid using those on strong beats.