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Prokofiev's harmony

Posted: Wed Jul 28, 2010 11:05 pm
by Niels
I have started listening to works of Prokofiev recently, and I notice a lot of dissonances, but I don't know why he uses those dissonances.
Does anybody know more about this, and would you like to explain it?

Re: Prokofiev's harmony

Posted: Thu Jul 29, 2010 3:30 pm
by sbeckmesser
Those dissonances mainly come from his melodic lines, which intentionally clash, without conventional resolution, with the underlying harmonies. The harmonies themselves can change their implied tonal center rapidly and without conventional modulation. These are integral -- and instantly recognizable -- aspects of his style. They also keep the ear interested in what would otherwise be rather ordinary and four-square material.

--Sixtus

Re: Prokofiev's harmony

Posted: Sat Jul 31, 2010 3:41 pm
by Niels
I see. Thanks :D!