Harmonic mixing

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Harmonic mixing is a DJ's continuous mix between two pre-recorded tracks that are most often either in the same key, or their keys are relative or in a subdominant or dominant relationship with one another.

DJs whose equipment allows them to adjust the pitch of the records they play can, in doing so, alter a given song's key, thus allowing it potentially to blend more mellifluously into a song whose key is ordinarily of a more distant relationship.

Harmonic mixing helps to create a smooth transition between songs. DJs such as Sasha and Armin Van Buuren use harmonic mixing to supplement beatmatching. It is also an important element in creating a harmonious and consonant mashup.

Some software specializes in identifying the key in which a piece of music is performed, though it is generally prone to misreading songs with much harmonic complexity or with rapid chord progressions. Many DJs and musicians insist that a proper understanding of music theory bolstered by ear training is a more reliable tool.