ITALIAN SIXTH Meaning and
Definition
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Italian sixth is a music theory term referring to a specific type of chromatic chord that is commonly used in classical music compositions. It is also known as the augmented sixth chord. This chord is characterized by its distinctive interval of an augmented sixth between its root note and the raised fourth/flat fifth note, as well as its tritone interval between the raised fourth/flat fifth and the raised sixth note.
The Italian sixth chord typically consists of a major triad with a raised fourth/flat fifth and a raised sixth. In the key of C major, for example, an Italian sixth chord would consist of the notes A♭, C, and F♯, creating the interval of the augmented sixth between the A♭ and F♯.
The Italian sixth chord is often used as a chromatic alteration to a dominant chord, providing tension that leads to the subsequent resolution. It is frequently used in classical music compositions to create musical interest and complexity. The Italian sixth chord also commonly functions as a dominant to the dominant, establishing a temporary tonal center and providing harmonic variety.
Overall, the Italian sixth chord is a harmonic device that adds a colorful and chromatic flavor to classical music compositions, often serving as a prelude to an eventual resolution and contributing to the overall musical tension and release.
Common Misspellings for ITALIAN SIXTH
- utalian sixth
- jtalian sixth
- ktalian sixth
- otalian sixth
- 9talian sixth
- 8talian sixth
- iralian sixth
- ifalian sixth
- igalian sixth
- iyalian sixth
- i6alian sixth
- i5alian sixth
- itzlian sixth
- itslian sixth
- itwlian sixth
- itqlian sixth
- itakian sixth
- itapian sixth
- itaoian sixth
- italuan sixth
Etymology of ITALIAN SIXTH
The term "Italian sixth" refers to a musical interval known as an augmented sixth chord, often used in classical music compositions. The etymology of the term derives from the fact that this chord was commonly found and popularized in Italian music of the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Italian sixth chord consists of a major sixth interval above the bass note, along with a tritone interval between the major sixth and the augmented fourth above the bass note. This combination creates a distinctive and unstable sound that creates tension and resolves to the dominant chord, making it a useful tool for composers.
As for why it is referred to as "Italian" specifically, it is believed that the chord gained popularity through the works of Italian composers during the Baroque and Classical periods. This includes influential Italian musicians such as Alessandro Scarlatti, Luigi Boccherini, and Domenico Scarlatti, among others.
