AP Music Theory Flashcards: Harmonic Sequence
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What does 'transposition' mean in the context of a harmonic sequence?
Transposition is the action of moving the entire chord segment up or down in pitch by a specific, consistent interval.
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What does 'transposition' mean in the context of a harmonic sequence?
Transposition is the action of moving the entire chord segment up or down in pitch by a specific, consistent interval.
A score shows the progression | C | F | followed immediately by | D | G |. Is this a harmonic sequence?
Yes, this is a harmonic sequence where the segment (C to F) is transposed up a major second.
What is the 'segment' in a harmonic sequence?
The segment is the initial pattern of chords that is copied and transposed to create the sequence.
What is the key characteristic of the transposition within a harmonic sequence?
The interval of transposition is usually held to a constant size for each repetition of the chord segment.
When listening to performed music, what aural cue suggests the presence of a harmonic sequence?
Listen for a distinct harmonic pattern that repeats, with each repetition starting on a higher or lower pitch than the last.
What are the two essential components that create a harmonic sequence?
The two essential components are the initial chord segment and its immediate transposition at a constant interval.
A composer writes a chord segment and then transposes it down a perfect fourth. If this begins a harmonic sequence, what will the next transposition be?
The next transposition will also be down a perfect fourth, continuing the constant interval of the sequence.
How would you identify a harmonic sequence in notated music?
You would look for a repeating pattern of chords (the segment) that moves up or down the staff by a consistent interval for each repetition.
Define harmonic sequence.
A harmonic sequence occurs when a segment of chords is followed immediately by one or more transpositions of the same segment.
How does a melodic sequence relate to a harmonic sequence?
A harmonic sequence can occur with a corresponding melodic sequence, meaning the melody is also transposed along with the underlying chords.