Borrowed Chords: A Musical Journey

Unveiling the Secrets of Modal Mixture

Unlocking the Harmonic Potential of Parallel Keys

In the tapestry of music, harmonies dance in an intricate interplay, weaving together melodies and rhythms. Amidst this symphony, we encounter the captivating concept of borrowed chords, a musical technique that transcends tonal boundaries.

A borrowed chord, also known as modal mixture, is the unexpected yet harmonious use of a chord that seemingly belongs to a different scale. This audacious departure from traditional chord progressions creates a sense of intrigue and emotional depth.

Parallel keys, sharing a dominant chord, offer a rich source for borrowed chords. For instance, both C major and C minor utilize G major as their dominant chord. This common ground allows us to explore the possibilities of substituting C minor with G major, creating a refreshing and unexpected harmonic shift.