AP Music Theory Flashcards: Additional 6/4 Chords
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 16 cards to help you master important concepts.
Define a neighboring or pedal 6/4 chord.
A neighboring or pedal 6/4 occurs when the third and fifth of a root-position triad are embellished by their upper neighbor tones while the bass remains stationary.
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Define a neighboring or pedal 6/4 chord.
A neighboring or pedal 6/4 occurs when the third and fifth of a root-position triad are embellished by their upper neighbor tones while the bass remains stationary.
On what part of the beat does a pedal 6/4 chord usually occur?
The pedal (or neighboring) 6/4 chord usually occurs on a weak beat.
In what common musical styles might you hear an arpeggiated 6/4 chord?
An arpeggiated 6/4 chord is often heard in a waltz or march.
What are the three main types of 6/4 chords used in 18th-century voice leading?
The three main types are passing, pedal (or neighboring), and arpeggiated 6/4 chords.
When part-writing a passing 6/4 chord, which chord member should be doubled?
When part-writing a passing 6/4 chord, the fifth of the 6/4 chord should be doubled.
What is the relationship between the bass and upper voices in an arpeggiated 6/4 chord?
The bass line arpeggiates the same triad that the stationary upper voices are holding.
What four skills are used to identify and apply the procedures of 18th-century voice leading for 6/4 chords?
The four skills are score analysis, error detection, writing exercises, and contextual listening.
What is the primary function of a passing 6/4 chord?
Its primary function is to harmonize a bass passing tone.
How do the upper voices typically move in a passing 6/4 chord?
In a passing 6/4 chord, the motion of the upper voices is ordinarily by step.
Define a passing 6/4 chord.
A passing 6/4 chord harmonizes the second note of a three-note ascending or descending scale fragment in the bass.
How do the upper voices move when part-writing an arpeggiated 6/4 chord?
When part-writing an arpeggiated 6/4 chord, the three upper voices are stationary and only the bass moves.
What is the complete voice-leading rule for a passing 6/4 chord?
The fifth of the 6/4 chord should be doubled, and all voices should move in stepwise motion.
What is the voice-leading procedure for a pedal (or neighboring) 6/4 chord?
The third and fifth of a root-position triad are embellished by their respective upper neighbor tones while the bass remains stationary.
Describe the bass motion in an arpeggiated 6/4 chord.
The bass arpeggiates a complete triad, or it oscillates between the root and fifth of the chord.
On what part of the beat does a passing 6/4 chord usually occur?
The passing 6/4 chord usually occurs on a weak beat.
Define an arpeggiated 6/4 chord.
An arpeggiated 6/4 chord results from triad arpeggiation in the bass while the upper voices sound a static chord.