tonal theory

PLAINCHANT

There are chant forms that may only use two notes. Medieval church used Latin as a language. The use of these two notes was a common chant formula, also found in folk melodies where they alternate on two different notes. All sections end on the starting notes.

SCALE TYPE: Modal
RHYTHM: Free, non metrical
TEXTURE: Monophonic
TIMBRE: Vocal

APEX NOTE: Highest note of the melody.


Parallel - two parts are least independent
Contrary - most needed to create independence of part


Modes
All plainchant melodies begin on ONE of the following:

D à DORIAN
E à PHRYGIAN
F à LYDIAN
G à MIXOLYDIAN
C à IONIAN
A à AELIAN
B à LOCRIAN

All of the above modes were based on the diatonic scale (Any pattern of notes which five are whole tones and 2 semitones)



TONAL THEORY

Counterpoint/polyphony
What ma...