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Italian augmented sixth chords are a fascinating harmonic device used in Western classical music, especially prominent during the Baroque and Classical periods. Recognizing and incorporating these chords can add a distinct color and tension to your compositions, enriching your harmonic palette.
What Are Italian Augmented Sixth Chords?
The Italian augmented sixth chord, also known as It+6, is a type of augmented sixth chord characterized by its specific intervallic structure. It typically consists of the flat sixth, the first (or tonic), and the raised fourth (which functions as a chromatic note). When resolved, it usually moves to the dominant chord, creating a strong sense of tension and release.
How to Recognize Italian Augmented Sixth Chords
Recognizing the Italian augmented sixth involves identifying its unique pitch collection and its resolution tendencies. Look for these features:
- The chord contains the flat sixth degree of the scale, often borrowed from the minor key or altered chromatically.
- The chord includes the raised fourth (enharmonic to the augmented second) which creates a distinctive dissonance.
- It generally appears as a triad with an added chromatic note, often built on the subdominant or supertonic.
- Its typical resolution is to the dominant chord, with the augmented sixth interval resolving outward to an octave.
For example, in the key of C major, an Italian augmented sixth chord might be built on the lowered sixth (A♭), including the notes A♭, C, and F♯. When resolving, it moves to G major or G7, with the A♭ resolving upward to G and the F♯ resolving downward to G.
How to Use Italian Augmented Sixth Chords in Composition
Incorporating Italian augmented sixth chords can create compelling harmonic progressions. Here are some tips:
- Use them to add tension before resolving to the dominant, especially in cadential formulas.
- Experiment with voice leading by emphasizing the outward resolution of the augmented sixth interval.
- Combine with other augmented sixth chords or chromaticism for richer harmonic colors.
- Place them in the pre-dominant position to prepare for a strong V or V7 resolution.
For example, in a classical-style progression, you might move from a subdominant chord to an Italian augmented sixth, then resolve to the dominant, creating a sense of harmonic tension and release that guides the listener seamlessly towards the tonic.
Examples in Classical Music
Many composers, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn, employed Italian augmented sixth chords to heighten drama and expressiveness. Listening for these chords in their symphonies, sonatas, and operas can deepen your understanding of harmonic language and inspire your own writing.
Summary
The Italian augmented sixth chord is a powerful harmonic tool that adds tension and color to your compositions. Recognizing its unique structure and resolution tendencies allows you to use it effectively, enriching your harmonic vocabulary and creating compelling musical narratives.