7.1 Phrase Types and Periodic Structure

Phrase types and periodic structures are essential building blocks in tonal composition. They help create coherent musical ideas and shape the overall form of a piece. Understanding these elements is crucial for crafting melodies that flow naturally and engage listeners.

Antecedent and consequent phrases, periods, and sentence structures are key concepts in this topic. These tools allow composers to create tension, resolution, and variety in their melodies, contributing to the overall design and emotional impact of a musical work.

Phrase Types

Phrases and Phrase Groups

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• Phrase is the smallest musical unit that conveys a sense of completeness, typically ending with a cadence
• Phrase group consists of two or more phrases that work together to form a larger musical idea
• Phrase extension lengthens a phrase by adding material, often to create a stronger sense of closure or to transition to a new section

Antecedent and Consequent Phrases

• Antecedent phrase is the first phrase in a period structure that ends with a weak cadence (often a half cadence), creating a sense of incompleteness and expectation
• Consequent phrase follows the antecedent and ends with a strong cadence (usually an authentic cadence), providing a sense of resolution and completeness
• The consequent phrase often begins similarly to the antecedent but differs in its ending to create a sense of closure

Periodic Structures

Period Types

• Period is a type of phrase structure consisting of an antecedent phrase followed by a consequent phrase
• Parallel period features an antecedent and consequent phrase that are similar in melodic and harmonic content, creating a sense of unity (Mozart's Piano Sonata No. 16, K. 545, first theme)
• Contrasting period has an antecedent and consequent phrase that differ in melodic and harmonic content, creating a sense of variety and contrast (Beethoven's Symphony No. 5, first movement, second theme)

Cadences in Periodic Structures

• Cadence is a harmonic and melodic point of arrival that provides a sense of resolution or temporary repose
• In a period, the antecedent phrase typically ends with a weaker cadence (often a half cadence) to create a sense of incompleteness
• The consequent phrase concludes with a stronger cadence (usually an authentic cadence) to provide a sense of finality and resolution

Sentence Structure

Presentation and Continuation Phrases

• Sentence structure is a type of phrase structure consisting of a presentation phrase followed by a continuation phrase
• Presentation phrase introduces a basic idea (usually 2 bars) and then repeats it (often with slight variation), establishing the main melodic and harmonic material (Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 1, Op. 2 No. 1, first movement, main theme)
• Continuation phrase develops the material presented in the presentation phrase, often featuring fragmentation, sequence, or harmonic acceleration, leading to a cadence (usually an authentic cadence)

Comparison to Period Structure

• While a period consists of an antecedent and consequent phrase with contrasting endings, a sentence structure features a presentation phrase that establishes a basic idea and a continuation phrase that develops the material
• Sentence structures often have a more continuous and developmental character compared to the balanced and symmetrical nature of periods