Anticipation Tones

Definition

Anticipation tones are non-chord tones that occur before a chord change, creating tension and anticipation for the upcoming harmony.

Related terms

Suspension: A type of anticipation tone where a note from the previous chord is held over into the next chord, creating dissonance.

Appogiatura: An anticipation tone that is approached by a leap and resolved by step in the opposite direction.

Escape Tone: An anticipation tone that is approached by step from one chord tone and resolved by leap to another chord tone.