However, that analysis is inaccurate because the chord does not function as a subdominant. We refer to such coincidentally formed chords as auxiliary sonorities. (See Lesson III for more information on auxiliary sonorities.) A correct analysis will demonstrate that the I chord is being prolonged throughout the measure, using figured-bass signatures to indicate the melodic motion:
Example 20:
If we compare the figures in this example with the figures in Example 10, we can see the different roles of figured bass. In Example 10, the figures indicate chord inversion. In Example 18, the figures indicate part movement above a stationary bass. Many sonorities—like the A-minor chord in Example 16 or the F-major chord in Examples18-20—arise from melodic motion in one or more of the upper voices. It is crucial that you learn to distinguish these voice-leading byproducts from the fundamental chords.
Activity 4.7:
In this activity, you will be presented with a short passage from a Bach chorale (the second phrase of BWV 279, “Christ lag in Todesbanden,” mm. 3-4). Each exercise will have you analyze a single chord from the excerpt by providing a roman numeral with figures.
Exercise 4.7a:
Question: “What roman numeral should appear under the chord indicated by the arrow?” [Answer: “V.” Incorrect answer response: “Incorrect. Remember, the roman numeral should be determined by the root of the chord (which may be in inversion). Try again.”]
Followup question: “What figures, if any, should accompany the roman numeral?” [Answer: “,”“,” or “
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