Sequence (music)

In music, a sequence is the restatement of a motif or longer melodic (or harmonic) passage at a higher or lower pitch in the same voice. It is one of the most common and simple methods of elaborating a melody in eighteenth and nineteenth century classical music (Classical period and Romantic music). Characteristics of sequences: Two segments, usually no more than three or four Usually in only one direction: continually higher or lower Segments continue by same interval distance It is possible for melody or harmony to form a sequence without the other participating. There are many types of sequences, each with a unique pattern. Listed below are some examples. In a melody, a real sequence is a sequence where the subsequent segments are exact transpositions of the first segment, while a tonal sequence is a sequence where the subsequent segments are diatonic transpositions of the first. The following passage from J.S. Bach demonstrates both kinds of sequence at work: Note: In the example image above, the annotation "the intervals in the second sequence are the same as in the first" is not entirely correct. The descending pitches in the first segment (G to A), have different intervals than in the second segment (C to D). The difference being in the last three pitches (C, B, A versus F, E, D). We have whole-step + half-step intervals in the first, and half-step + whole-step in the second. A rhythmic sequence is the repetition of a rhythm with free use of pitches: A modified sequence is a sequence where the subsequent segments are decorated or embellished so as to not destroy the character of the original segment: A false sequence is a literal repetition of the beginning of a figure and stating the rest in sequence: A modulating sequence is a sequence that leads from one tonal center to the next, with each segment technically being in a different key in some sequences: The above passage starts in F major and modulates to Bb major and then, via the chord of G, to C major. Sometimes sequential passages combine more than one of the above characteristics.