Using Neapolitan Chords
printed from www.musictheory.net
In the previous lessons, we learned how to construct Neapolitan chords. In this lesson, we will learn how to use them.
Although root position and second inversion Neapolitans exist, first inversion is normally used.
In this inversion, the Neapolitan is called a Neapolitan sixth.
Notice that the Neapolitan sixth's bass note is the same as a first inversion iio (or ii) or a root position iv (or IV).
For this reason, it often substitutes for these chords. Hence, it primarily functions as a predominant.
Consider this example.
We can replace the ii6 chord with a Neapolitan sixth.
Next, consider this example.
This time, we will replace the iv with a Neapolitan sixth.
Use this chart to reference the Neapolitan chord's usage.
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In the previous lessons, we learned how to construct Neapolitan chords. In this lesson, we will learn how to use them.
Although root position and second inversion Neapolitans exist, first inversion is normally used.
In this inversion, the Neapolitan is called a Neapolitan sixth.
Notice that the Neapolitan sixth's bass note is the same as a first inversion iio (or ii) or a root position iv (or IV).
For this reason, it often substitutes for these chords. Hence, it primarily functions as a predominant.
Consider this example.
We can replace the ii6 chord with a Neapolitan sixth.
Next, consider this example.
This time, we will replace the iv with a Neapolitan sixth.
Use this chart to reference the Neapolitan chord's usage.
If this lesson helps you, please purchase our apps to support our site.