BORROWED CHORD Meaning and
Definition
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A borrowed chord refers to a chord that is taken from a different key or mode and used in a composition or progression. It typically involves introducing a chord that does not naturally belong to the key in which the piece is written.
In music theory, borrowed chords are employed to add color, tension, or a sense of surprise to a composition. By incorporating a chord borrowed from another key or mode, the composer or songwriter introduces harmonic variety and creates an interesting shift in the tonal palette.
Borrowed chords are often used to create temporary modulations or key changes within a piece, providing a sense of contrast against the prevailing tonality. Common examples of borrowed chords include chords taken from the parallel major or minor key, such as using a major chord in a predominantly minor key progression. This technique allows for the blending of different tonalities, injecting fresh emotions and dynamic changes into the music.
Furthermore, borrowed chords can enhance harmonic movement and progression by altering the expected chord qualities or introducing chromaticism. They provide an opportunity for composers and musicians to experiment with different harmonic colors and expand the harmonic language of a composition beyond its traditional tonal framework.
Etymology of BORROWED CHORD
The term "borrowed chord" is derived from the concept of borrowing a chord from another key in music theory. It refers to a chord that is normally not found in the current key but is taken or borrowed from another key.
The word "borrowed" implies that the chord is temporarily borrowed from a different musical context and used within the current key to add color or create a particular harmonic effect.
