What is the term for a non-chord tone that is approached by step and resolved by remaining on the same pitch?

What is the term for a non-chord tone that is approached by step and resolved by remaining on the same pitch?

• A. Appoggiatura
• B. Suspension
• C. Anticipation
• D. Retardation

Answer: (C)

The correct term for a non-chord tone that is approached by step and resolved by remaining on the same pitch is anticipation. This term refers to a melodic note that occurs before the harmony changes. It is usually a note that is part of the upcoming chord, creating a sense of forward motion and expectation as it preempts the chord that follows. By stepping into this note and holding it, the musician creates a moment of tension that resolves neatly as the harmony catches up with it, allowing the listener to hear the relationship between the melody and the underlying chord structure. In contrast, appoggiaturas typically approach by leap and resolve to a chord tone, suspensions create tension by delaying a chord tone and resolving downwards, and retardations are similar to suspensions but resolve upwards. Each of these terms describes a different approach to non-chord tones, highlighting the unique function of anticipation in musical context.

The correct term for a non-chord tone that is approached by step and resolved by remaining on the same pitch is anticipation. This term refers to a melodic note that occurs before the harmony changes. It is usually a note that is part of the upcoming chord, creating a sense of forward motion and expectation as it preempts the chord that follows. By stepping into this note and holding it, the musician creates a moment of tension that resolves neatly as the harmony catches up with it, allowing the listener to hear the relationship between the melody and the underlying chord structure.

In contrast, appoggiaturas typically approach by leap and resolve to a chord tone, suspensions create tension by delaying a chord tone and resolving downwards, and retardations are similar to suspensions but resolve upwards. Each of these terms describes a different approach to non-chord tones, highlighting the unique function of anticipation in musical context.