#AP Music Theory: Ultimate Study Guide 🎶

Hey there, future music master! This guide is your backstage pass to acing the AP Music Theory exam. Let's dive in and make sure you're feeling confident and ready to rock! 🎸

#Unit 6: Musical Expression and Embellishments

#6.1: Embellishing Tones: Passing and Neighbor Tones

Embellishments, or non-chord tones, are like the spices in a musical dish—they add flavor and complexity. They're notes that don't belong to the main harmony but create interest. Let's break down two common types:

#Passing Tones

Definition: A passing tone connects two chord tones by step, creating a smooth transition.
Function: Adds motion and flow to the music. Think of it as a musical bridge. 🌉
Types:
- Unaccented: Occurs on a weaker beat. (Most common)
- Accented: Occurs on a stronger beat. (Used sparingly for tension)

Memory Aid

Passing tones pass between chord tones, moving stepwise like a pedestrian crossing a street.

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Example of passing tones connecting chord tones.

#Neighbor Tones

Definition: A neighbor tone steps away from a chord tone and then returns to it.
Function: Adds ornamentation and decoration to a melody.
Types:
- Upper Neighbor: Steps up from the chord tone and returns.
- Lower Neighbor: Steps down from the chord tone and returns.

Memory Aid

Neighbor tones are like a neighbor visiting next door and then returning home.

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Example of upper and lower neighbor tones.

Practice Question

{ "mcq": [ { "question": "In a melody, a note that moves stepwise from a chord tone, then returns to the original chord tone is called a:", "options": ["Passing tone", "Neighbor tone", "Suspension", "Anticipation"], "answer": "Neighbor tone" }, { "question": "Which of the following best describes an accented passing tone?", "options": ["Occurs on a weak beat", "Occurs on a strong beat", "Always resolves upward", "Always resolves downward"], "answer": "Occurs on a strong beat" } ], "frq": { "question": "Given the following four-part harmony, identify all passing and neighbor tones. Indicate whether they are accented or unaccented, upper or lower:", "music_example": "(Insert a simple four-part example with passing and neighbor tones here)", "scoring_breakdown": [ "1 point for each correctly identified passing tone", "1 point for each correctly identified neighbor tone", "1 point for each correct identification of accented/unaccented", "1 point for each correct identification of upper/lower" ] } }

#6.2: Writing Passing and Neighbor Tones

Soprano Line: Generally, passing and neighbor tones are unaccented for a smooth melodic line.
Bass Line: Use them to add interest, often with a stationary soprano line. Avoid parallel motion. 💡
- Voice Exchange: When the bass and soprano lines swap notes, it can sound beautiful. Think of it as a musical handshake. 🤝

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Harmony and Voice Leading III (Embellishments, Motives, and Melodic Devices)