Descending-Third Sequences

Question 1

descending-third sequences

Answer 1

• same concepts as descnding-fifths but there is a higher tendency for voice leading problems
• descending by thirds problems:
• • chords in sequence have built in parallel fifths
• pattern: I (V) vi (iii) IV (I) ii () I
• • notice that every other chord is the descending third (the chords in paranthesis are also descending thirds)
• most famous use
• • Pachelbel’s canon
• – cellols don’t like this piece
• • used in most rock songs

Question 2

how to avoid parallel fifths

Answer 2

• alternate with first inversion chords

- alternate with chords between (Pachelbel’s canon)

Question 3

a descending thirds sequence usually happens chord by chord, meaning : I-vi-IV-ii and so on, with no chords in between

Answer 3

• false

Question 4

complete the descending third sequence

I - V6 - __ - ii6 - __ - ii - __

Answer 4

• vi; IV; viio

Question 5

to avoid parallel fifths in a descending thirds sequence, composers stick ______________ chords in between the other chords

Answer 5

• first inversion

Question 6

pachelbel’s canon is one of the most famous examples of the use of the descending thirds sequence

Answer 6

• true

Question 7

__________ are built into the structure of a descending thirds sequence

Answer 7

• parallel fifths