Application of virtual pitch theory in music analysis

by Llorenç Balsach

Abstract

In the course of this article a model of harmonic analysis is worked out based on certain properties of the auditory system, which I think will shed new light on the study of cadences and local harmonic resolutions. This model consists basically of extracting the two main fundamentals (roots) which are to be found in 93.3% of chords of less than 6 notes. To do this I apply the basic concepts of virtual pitch but taking into account only those harmonics which are in a prime position in the first seven, which in our thesis include the rest of the harmonics as far as the human auditory is concerned. With this model we found new information about the "internal" harmonic tension which is created by every single note and the tendencies of chords towards resolutions. I compare and discuss other models which apply the theory of virtual pitch in harmonic analysis.