ABSTRACT
Neapolitan chords are major triads built on the lowered second scale degree. They consist of scale degrees ↓2, 4, and ↓6 and carry predominant function. They most commonly appear in the minor mode and in first inversion, although root position Neapolitans are not uncommon. Neapolitan chords may also appear as a form of chromatic modal borrowing in the major mode. In the Neapolitan’s typical resolution, the lowered second scale degree must resolve down to the leading tone either directly (leaping a third) or by going through a passing tone, which is often harmonized by a cadential sixfour chord or secondary vii°7/V, as illustrated below:
Memorize the following patterns that use the Neapolitan harmony and its typical resolutions. Be able to sing them from any pitch.
