To understand harmony in music, let's start with the basics. Harmony is when multiple notes are played at the same time to make chords. Learning about harmony is important because it helps create music and makes melodies more interesting.

Basic Chords

Start with the two main types of chords: major and minor.

A major chord has three notes:

1. The root note (the starting note)
2. A note that is a major third above the root
3. A note that is a perfect fifth above the root

For example, a C major chord is made up of the notes C, E, and G.

Now, a minor chord also has three notes:

1. The root note
2. A note that is a minor third above the root
3. A note that is a perfect fifth above the root

An example of a minor chord is A minor, which includes the notes A, C, and E.

Chord Progressions

Next, let's look at common chord progressions.

A popular one is called the I-IV-V-I progression.

In this progression:

• I stands for the tonic (the main chord)
• IV is the subdominant
• V is the dominant

If you are in the key of C major, the chords would be C, F, G, and then back to C.

Getting to know these patterns helps you see how harmony supports the melody in songs.

Function of Harmony

Now, let’s think about what these chords do:

• The tonic (I) is where we feel at home in the music.
• The subdominant (IV) helps make a change in the music.
• The dominant (V) leads us back to the tonic, creating a feeling of resolution.

Practical Application

To really understand these concepts, try to find these chords and progressions in your favorite songs. You can play them on an instrument or use music software to create your own.

By following these steps—learning definitions, understanding how different chords work, and practicing—you’ll start to appreciate the harmony that makes music so rich and enjoyable.