1. Chord progression: The progression of chords in a harmony can create different emotional contexts for the melody. A sequence of harmonically dissonant chords can generate tension and suspense, while a progression of consonant chords can evoke a sense of stability and resolution. This interplay of chords influences how the melody is perceived and interpreted.
2. Chord tones: The notes within the harmony (chord tones) can provide structure and support for the melody. By highlighting specific chord tones, the melody can be reinforced or harmonically embellished. When the melody moves in harmony with the chord tones, it creates a sense of consonance and coherence.
3. Chord inversions: Inversions of chords (different arrangements of chord notes) can influence the melodic contour. By changing the order of notes, the harmony can provide different harmonic intervals between the melody notes, altering the melodic trajectory and shaping its phrasing and expression.
4. Countermelodies: Harmony can introduce countermelodies that interact with the primary melody. These countermelodies provide complementary lines that add depth and texture to the overall musical fabric, creating a more dynamic and captivating melody.
5. Voice leading: The way the harmony moves between chords is called voice leading. Smooth voice leading ensures that the transition from one chord to the next is fluid and logical. This influences how the melody fits within the harmony and how it develops over time.
6. Cadences: Cadences, which involve specific chord progressions at the end of musical phrases, can create a sense of closure or progression in the melody. Perfect cadences (tonic to dominant to tonic chords) provide a strong sense of resolution, while imperfect cadences (tonal to dominant or subdominant chords) leave a feeling of suspense, leading the ear to expect the continuation of the melody.
7. Tonality: The harmonic framework establishes the tonality or key center of the piece. The melody operates within the tonal context provided by the harmony, outlining its key notes, scale degrees, and centers of attraction. This relationship defines the melodic structure and harmonic direction of the music.
In essence, harmony provides a foundation, context, and framework for the melody to unfold and develop. It influences the melodic contour, phrasing, emotional impact, and overall musical narrative, contributing to the richness and complexity of the musical composition.