Macro analysis

Macro analysis for triads on C.

In music theory, macro analysis is a method of transcribing, or writing down chords that may be used along with or instead of conventional musical analysis. Uppercase or lowercase letters are used to indicate the roots of chords, followed by symbols which specify the chord quality.[1]

Macro analysis symbols
Triad Root Chord quality Example Audio
Major triad Uppercase C  Play 
Minor triad Lowercase c  Play 
Augmented triad Uppercase + C+  Play 
Diminished triad Lowercase o co  Play 

Slurs are used to indicate motion, with solid slurs connecting roots an descending fifth or ascending fourth apart or dotted slurs indicating leading-tone resolution (in a dominant substitution). Macro analysis, placed below the score, may be accompanied by Roman numeral analysis, placed below it.[1]

Other systems of notation for chords include:[2] plain staff notation, used in classical music, Roman numerals, commonly used in harmonic analysis,[3] figured bass, much used in the Baroque era, and various names and symbols used in jazz and popular music.

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 Benward & Saker (2003). Music: In Theory and Practice, Vol. I, p.74-75. Seventh Edition. ISBN 978-0-07-294262-0.
  2. ↑ Benward & Saker (2003). Music: In Theory and Practice, Vol. I, p. 77. Seventh Edition. ISBN 978-0-07-294262-0.
  3. ↑ Arnold Schoenberg, Structural Functions of Harmony, Faber and Faber, 1983, p.1-2.

See also