Harmonic Rhythm

Harmonic rhythm refers to the pace at which chords change in a piece of music. This aspect of music affects the energy, flow, and emotional impact of a composition just as much as the actual chord choices. Some pieces have slow harmonic rhythm with chords changing every measure or every few measures, creating a spacious, floating quality. Others feature rapid chord changes occurring multiple times per measure, creating momentum and intensity. Composers like Duke Ellington masterfully varied harmonic rhythm to build drama in pieces like "Mood Indigo," starting with slow-changing chords before increasing the harmonic pace. In rock music, bands like The Beatles often used accelerating harmonic rhythm to build excitement in song bridges. Classical composer Johannes Brahms was known for manipulating harmonic rhythm to create tension and resolution across long musical phrases. Understanding harmonic rhythm helps musicians better interpret compositions and make more effective arrangement choices.