Glossary

Bar

A fixed number of beats (2, 3, 4) defined by metre.

Bass line

The lowest part of a piece of music which outlines the chords.

Chord

Two or more notes sounded simultaneously. In Western music the notes sounded operate in relationship to a scale.

Chord progression

A succession of chords related to each other.

Consonance

The harmonious sounding of two or more notes.

Dissonance

Two or more notes sounding simultaneously which create a harsh, unstable sound.

Harmony

The combining of notes simultaneously.

Key

The tonal centre of a composition which defines the relationship of notes, chords and structure.

Major

Term to describe intervals, scales, chords and keys, distinguished mainly by the third note.

Minor

Term to describe intervals, scales, chords and keys, distinguished mainly by the third note.