Introduction
Frédéric Chopin, one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era, had a profound understanding of the power of scales in creating captivating melodies and harmonic progressions. Among his many innovative contributions to music theory is the concept of meded scales, which have become a cornerstone of contemporary music.
What are Meded Scales?
Meded scales are a type of altered scale that is created by modifying the intervals of a major or minor scale. The term “meded” refers to the Hungarian word for “flat,” and as such, meded scales incorporate flattened notes into their construction.
The Architecture of Meded Scales
Meded scales are typically constructed by flattening the 2nd, 6th, and 7th scale degrees. For example, the C meded scale would be:
C - Db - Eb - F - Gb - Ab - Bb
Harmonic Implications of Meded Scales
Meded scales create unique harmonic implications due to the altered intervals they incorporate. The flattened 2nd and 6th scale degrees introduce dissonance and tension, while the flattened 7th scale degree weakens the resolution tendency of the dominant chord.
Applications of Meded Scales in Music
The harmonic richness of meded scales has made them invaluable in a wide range of musical genres, including:
- Classical music: Chopin’s Nocturnes, Preludes, and Ballades often employ meded scales to create atmospheric and evocative melodies.
- Jazz: Meded scales are frequently found in jazz improvisations and compositions, adding a sense of harmonic adventure and sophistication.
- Film and television scoring: Composers use meded scales to create haunting and evocative scores for dramatic scenes and emotional moments.
- Popular music: Meded scales have been incorporated into pop songs by artists such as Björk, Radiohead, and Coldplay, contributing to their distinctive and otherworldly sound.
Notable Examples of Meded Scales in Music
- Chopin’s Nocturne in E-flat major, Op. 9, No. 2, features a haunting melody built on the C meded scale.
- Miles Davis’s “So What” employs the F meded scale in its iconic bassline.
- The soundtrack to the film “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” prominently uses the C meded scale to evoke a sense of wonder and adventure.
- Radiohead’s song “Paranoid Android” features a memorable guitar solo that incorporates the A meded scale.
Creative Applications of Meded Scales
Beyond their traditional uses, meded scales can inspire fresh and innovative applications:
- Modern classical music: Composers can experiment with extended meded scales, incorporating additional flattened notes for even greater harmonic complexity.
- Electronic music: Meded scales can be used to create intricate and futuristic melodies and soundscapes using synthesizers and electronic effects.
- Music therapy: The dissonant and tension-inducing qualities of meded scales may have therapeutic applications in reducing stress and promoting emotional release.
Table 1: Comparison of Major, Minor, and Meded Scales
| Scale Degree | Major | Minor | Meded |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Root | Root | Root |
| 2 | Whole tone | Whole tone | Flattened half tone |
| 3 | Whole tone | Half tone | Whole tone |
| 4 | Perfect fourth | Perfect fourth | Perfect fourth |
| 5 | Perfect fifth | Perfect fifth | Perfect fifth |
| 6 | Whole tone | Half tone | Flattened half tone |
| 7 | Half tone | Whole tone | Flattened half tone |
Table 2: Meded Scales in Different Keys
| Key | Meded Scale |
|---|---|
| C | C – Db – Eb – F – Gb – Ab – Bb |
| G | G – Ab – Bb – C – Db – Eb – F |
| D | D – Eb – F – G – Ab – Bb – C |
| A | A – Bb – C – D – Eb – F – G |
| E | E – F – G – A – Bb – C – D |
Table 3: Harmonic Implications of Meded Scales
| Scale Degree | Interval from Root | Harmonic Function |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | Flattened major second | dissonance, tension |
| 6 | Flattened major sixth | dissonance, diminished chord sound |
| 7 | Flattened leading tone | weakened dominant chord resolution |
Table 4: Applications of Meded Scales in Music
| Genre | Examples | Harmonic Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Classical | Chopin’s Nocturne in E-flat major, Op. 9, No. 2 | Atmospheric, haunting melodies |
| Jazz | Miles Davis’s “So What” | Dissonant, improvisational bassline |
| Film scoring | “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” soundtrack | Evocative, otherworldly atmosphere |
| Popular music | Radiohead’s “Paranoid Android” | Memorable, guitar solo |
Conclusion
Chopin meded scales have revolutionized the world of music with their unique harmonic qualities. Their ability to create both dissonance and tension, as well as weaken the resolution tendency of dominant chords, has made them an indispensable tool for composers of all genres. By understanding the construction, implications, and applications of meded scales, musicians can unlock a vast potential for harmonic expression and creative inspiration.
