How Does a Pedal Point Work? - Music Theory

Music Matters
1 Mar 201804:23
EducationalLearning
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TLDRA pedal point (or pedal note) in music is a prolonged or repeated note, typically in the bass, used to build tension that eventually resolves. As other notes and chords change above it, the tension increases until the pedal point progresses to a resolving note, giving a sense of release. Dominant pedal points on the fifth scale degree are especially effective as they have an innate tendency to resolve to the tonic, the first scale degree. Composers utilize pedal points, whether dominant, tonic, or other notes, to construct musical climaxes, with the tension continuing to mount through repeated and sustained pedal notes until an ultimate moment of resolution.

Takeaways
  • 😀 A pedal point is a musical device where a note is repeated or sustained while other notes play around it.
  • 🎹 Pedal points build tension that resolves when the pedal note changes.
  • 🎶 Composers use pedal points to create tension that builds to a climax.
  • 🎵 The most common pedal point is the dominant (5th note of the scale).
  • 🎼 The dominant pedal point resolves to the tonic (1st note of the scale).
  • 🎤 Pedal points can be sustained or repeated.
  • 🎹 Pedal points can be short or continue for many bars.
  • 🎵 Pedal points don't have to be on the dominant.
  • 🎻 Double pedal points use two notes together.
  • 🎹 Any note can be used as a pedal point.
Q & A

  • What is a pedal point in music?

    -A pedal point is a long held or repeated musical note over which other notes sound and change, creating tension that eventually resolves when the pedal point changes or ends.

  • Why are pedal points effective at building tension in music?

    -The repeated or sustained pedal point contrasts with the changing chords and notes around it. This builds tension and expectation in the listener for eventual resolution when the pedal point changes.

  • What is the most common type of pedal point?

    -The most common pedal point is a dominant pedal point, which means it is the fifth note of the scale or key. This note has an strong pull toward the tonic or first note of the scale, increasing tension.

  • Can a pedal point be based on notes other than the dominant?

    -Yes, a pedal point can be based on the tonic/first note of the scale or any other scale degree. But the dominant is generally the most effective at building tension.

  • What instruments demonstrate pedal points in the example?

    -The example demonstrates pedal points on a piano. The left hand plays the repeating pedal point while the right hand plays changing chords.

  • What is meant by a double pedal point?

    -A double pedal point has two notes repeating or sustaining together, such as both the tonic and dominant notes. This can increase the tension and expectation even further.

  • How long can a pedal point last?

    -A pedal point may last for a short time or continue repeating for multiple bars of music, building tension over a longer section before resolution.

  • What causes the feeling of "release" at the end of a pedal point?

    -The release comes when the pedal point finally changes or resolves by stepping down to the tonic/first note of the scale after a period of tension.

  • Can pedal points be used in non-classical music genres?

    -Yes, pedal points can be used in many genres including rock, pop, jazz, and more to build and release tension.

  • What other compositional techniques build musical tension?

    -Other common tension-building techniques include suspensions, ostinatos, sequentials, rising dynamics, modulations to distantly related keys, and more.

Outlines
00:00
🎵 Understanding Pedal Points

This segment introduces the concept of a pedal point, clarifying that it does not relate to piano or organ pedals. A pedal point is defined as a note that is sustained or repeated throughout a musical passage, while other harmonic changes occur around it. The speaker uses an example of a single note played in the bass alongside changing chords to demonstrate how a pedal point operates. The concept is further explained by showing how pedal points can build musical tension and ultimately resolve, providing a sense of release. This resolution is particularly effective when using dominant pedal points, which are based on the fifth note of a scale, known for their strong resolution tendencies back to the tonic, or first note, of the scale. Additionally, the speaker touches on the possibility of using tonic pedal points (based on the first note of the scale) and even double pedal points (combining the first and fifth notes). The segment emphasizes the versatility and effectiveness of pedal points in creating tension and resolution in music, suggesting their utility in various musical contexts.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡Pedal Point
A pedal point, or pedal note, refers to a musical technique where a single note is sustained or repeatedly played while other harmonies change around it. This technique is not related to the physical pedals found on pianos or organs, but rather it is a compositional tool used to create tension and release within a piece of music. The script illustrates this concept by describing how a note can be held in the bass while chords change above it, ultimately resolving and providing a sense of relief. This method is effective in building suspense and anticipation in the listener.
💡Tension and Release
Tension and release is a fundamental concept in music that involves the buildup of musical tension followed by its resolution or release. This is a key aspect of the pedal point technique, as the sustained or repeated note creates tension against the changing harmonies, leading to a climactic resolution. The video script emphasizes how this tension builds up as the chords change and how it is finally resolved, offering listeners a satisfying musical journey.
💡Dominant Pedal Point
A dominant pedal point uses the fifth note of a scale (the dominant) as the sustained or repeated note. This is particularly effective because the dominant note naturally seeks resolution to the tonic, or first note of the scale, thus creating a strong sense of expectation and resolution. The script uses the example of a piece in C major where a G note (the dominant) is repeated, showcasing how this technique can lead to a powerful musical resolution.
💡Tonic Pedal Point
The tonic pedal point involves the first note of the scale (the tonic) being sustained or repeated. This technique can also create tension, albeit with a different flavor compared to the dominant pedal point, as the tonic serves as a home base around which other harmonies can explore before eventually returning. The script mentions this as an alternative to the dominant pedal point, offering versatility in composing and tension-building.
💡Double Pedal Point
A double pedal point is a more complex variation where two notes are sustained or repeated simultaneously, typically involving the tonic and dominant notes. This technique allows for a richer harmonic texture and increased tension, as it incorporates the foundational elements of both tonic and dominant pedal points. The script suggests using the first and fifth notes together to create an effective double pedal point.
💡Resolution
Resolution in music refers to the moment when musical tension is resolved, often leading to a sense of closure or relief. The pedal point technique relies heavily on the concept of resolution, as the sustained or repeated note creates tension that ultimately resolves when the harmonic context aligns with it. The script emphasizes the importance of resolution following the buildup of tension created by the pedal point.
💡Scale
A scale is a sequence of musical notes arranged in ascending or descending order. Scales serve as the foundation for melody and harmony in music. The script references scales when discussing dominant and tonic pedal points, explaining how the fifth (dominant) and first (tonic) notes of a scale are used in these techniques to create tension and resolution.
💡Harmony
Harmony refers to the combination of simultaneously sounded musical notes to produce chords and chord progressions. It is a fundamental aspect of music that enriches and adds depth to a melody. In the context of the video script, harmony plays a critical role in creating tension against the pedal point, as the changing chords above the sustained or repeated note contribute to the overall effect.
💡Composer
A composer is an individual who writes music. The script discusses how composers use pedal points as a tool to build tension and create emotional effects in their compositions. This highlights the role of the composer in manipulating musical elements like melody, harmony, and rhythm to convey specific moods or themes.
💡Climax
The climax in a musical context refers to a point of maximum intensity or the peak of emotional impact within a piece. The script ties the concept of climax to the use of pedal points, explaining how the buildup of tension and its subsequent resolution can lead to a climactic moment in the music, effectively releasing all the built-up energy and emotion.
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Transcripts

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