Resolution
The move from a dissonant or unstable sonority to a consonant or stable one
Category
harmony
Pronunciation
rez-oh-LOO-shun
Origin
Latin
Length
94 words · 1 min read
About Resolution
Resolution is the fundamental engine of tonal music: tension followed by release. Dissonant intervals and chords create expectation, and resolution satisfies it.
More harmony terms
Triad
View all harmonyterms →A three-note chord built from stacked thirds
ContrappesoA niche orchestration concept referring to the balancing of harmonic weight between contrasting sonorities
Seventh ChordA four-note chord adding a seventh above the root to a triad
ConsonanceIntervals or chords perceived as stable, restful, and complete.
InversionThe process of flipping an interval or rearranging the notes of a chord so a different note is in the bass.
Compare with similar terms
v1 · 09/04/2026Browse all terms →