Harmonization of Brazilian Popular Songs

Abstract

Harmon ization of popular songs in Brazil has, for quite som e time, been considered worthy of the attention of both music theorists and musicologists. Theaccompanimentsattract attention due to their varied and sometimes original character. The peculiarit ies of the harmonizat ion of popular Brazilian songs may not always be immediately co mprehensible, nor correspond exact ly to conventions found in analyses of the tradit ional concert repertoire. The chief reference treatises and manuals adopted in music schools can certainly provide satisfactory explanations, when appropriately used. Yet many specialists consider problematic some concepts and definitions that should facilitate the task of analysing popular songs.The Manual of Harmony by Igor VladimirovichSpossobin, 1955 ed ition, is the textbook adopted for harmony classes in the undergraduate program at the Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro - Un irio. Considered one of the most complete on the topic,it is also used at the Tchaikovsky Conservatory in Moscow. The 2007 edit ion is also used for reference.Nevertheless, it is wo rth mentioning that the book has not been used intensively for the analysis of popular songs. The Manual covers 60 topics, some of which are useful in explaining harmonic language frequently present in popular songs. Concepts such as inclination, the major-minor system, augmented sixth chords, Neapolitan harmon ies, ellipse, dimin ished-seventh chords and chords with non-chord tones, can be used to explain many of the harmoniesheard in Brazilian popular songs.