What is Harmony? (02:56)

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Harmony is present in music throughout the world, but what constitutes harmony varies between cultures and can change over time. Listen to Ganga music from Eastern Europe which uses similar notes to create harmonies unfamiliar to western ears.

Development of Harmony in Western Classical Music (06:29)

The definition of "good harmony" has evolved overtime ; its origins can be dated back to the Baroque, Renaissance, and Medieval periods. Prior to this, western music began in plainchant. Around the 10th century a second line was added and by the 16th century, a fourth line was added.

Tonality in Western Classical Music (05:53)

Harmony was developed in western classical music by the 18th century. Chord progression typically leads to a tension and ends on a resolution. Composers in the 19th century tried to push the limits of harmony and when they could go no further, created atonal music.

Traditional Jazz: Improvisation and the Chord Progression (04:42)

Chord progression is the foundation of improvisation in jazz music. Bass players are responsible for the bottom of a chord, but can improvise other notes within the chord.

Mbira Music of Zimbabwe (03:44)

The Mbira is one of the most common instruments found in Zimbabwean music. Despite no words for chord or harmony in Africa, African music utilizes both concepts.

Credits: Harmony—Exploring the World of Music (00:58)

Credits: Harmony—Exploring the World of Music