Dyad (music)

Pair of pitches that may imply a chord
All dyads within an octave on C. Playⓘ

In music, a dyad (less commonly, diad) is a set of two notes or pitches[1]. The notes of a dyad can be played simultaneously or in succession. Notes played in succession form a melodic interval; notes played simultaneously form a harmonic interval.

Dyads can be classified by the interval between the notes.[2] For example, the interval between C and E (four half steps) is a major third, which can imply a C major chord, made up of the notes C, E and G.[3]

In a triadic context chords with omitted thirds may be considered "indeterminate" triads.[4] Playⓘ
Melodic and harmonic intervals, respectively above and below. Playⓘ

See also

  • Double stop
  • Interval (music)
  • Power chord
  • Harmonic series (music)
  • Counterpoint

References

  1. ^ Harnsberger, Lindsey C. (1997). "dyad". Essential Dictionary of Music: Definitions, Composers, Theory, Instrument & Vocal Ranges. Los Angeles: Alfred Publishing. p. 47. ISBN 0-88284-728-7. OCLC 35172595. Retrieved 24 February 2009.
  2. ^ "Intervals and dyads – Open Music Theory". Open Music Theory. Retrieved 2015-12-06.
  3. ^ Young, Doug (2008). Mel Bay Presents Understanding DADGAD, p.53. ISBN 978-0-7866-7641-5.
  4. ^ Benjamin, et al. (2008). Techniques and Materials of Music, p.191. ISBN 0-495-50054-2.
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Pitch segments by cardinality (list)


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