In music, an organ point (also called a pedal point, pedal note, pedal tone, or pedal) is a sustained tone, typically in the bass, during which at least one foreign (dissonant) harmony is sounded in the other parts.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Definition: The organ point is characterized by a long, held note, usually in the bass (though it can occasionally appear in higher registers), that persists while the harmony above it changes.
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Function: Its primary function is to create tension and anticipation. The unchanging bass note provides a sense of grounding, while the shifting harmonies create dissonance and pull the listener toward a resolution. It often serves to signal an impending cadence or the return of a theme.
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Placement: Organ points are frequently found at the end of sections, particularly before a cadence. They can also be used to build drama and intensity within a piece.
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Registers: While most commonly found in the bass, organ points can also be found in other registers of the music. An organ point in a register other than the bass may also be referred to as an inverted pedal point.
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Instruments: Although the name "organ point" suggests the organ, this technique is not limited to the instrument. It can be effectively employed by any instrument or ensemble capable of sustaining a note.
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Examples:
- A common example would be holding a low C while the chords above progress through a series of dissonant harmonies before ultimately resolving back to a C major chord.
- In orchestral music, a sustained note in the cellos or basses might act as an organ point while the violins and woodwinds play contrasting melodic and harmonic material.
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Synonyms:
- Pedal Point
- Pedal Note
- Pedal Tone
- Pedal
In summary, the organ point is a valuable compositional tool that creates harmonic interest and tension by juxtaposing a sustained tone, usually in the bass, with changing harmonies above it.
