Harmonic Rhythm

This title examines the dimensional technique of analyzing harmonic rhythm. Using a small core of repeated musical examples, Swain explores the theory's crucial components including functional and non functional harmonies, harmonic tension and harmonic speed. He also outlines a method for "dimensional analysis" of musical works.

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An accessible exploration of an important and understudied music theory topic, Swain's book examines the dimensional technique of analyzing harmonic rhythm. Simply defined, harmonic rhythm is the relationship between changes in harmony and perceived changes in rhythm. This phenomenon plays a large role in shaping the texture and style of much of Western music, from Renaissance polyphonic pieces to the works of Debussy. Swain provides a clear and thorough discussion of how harmonic theory works, using a small core of repeated musical examples.