
Season 1 · Episode 172
Unlocking Chord Function with the Harmonic Series
The Music Interval Theory Podcast
February 10, 20266m 24s
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Show Notes
Download the free guide "5 Spells Every Composer Needs."
These spells are interval-based composition techniques that work like magic. I explain 5 of my most-used spells with examples so that you can implement them in your compositions as well.
https://musicintervaltheory.academy/spells
In this episode of The Music Interval Theory Podcast, Frank unpacks why chords like C6 and Am7—despite using the same notes—feel so different. The secret lies in the harmonic series and how we interpret the root. You’ll learn how shifting the fundamental changes the chord's function, complexity, and emotional color. We go from simple sixth chords to rich 13th structures, all using the exact same tones. It’s a powerful lesson in musical context, function, and the nature of harmony.
Topics
harmonic serieschord functionmusic theoryharmonic complexityovertone seriesharmonic seriesharmonychordsmusic lesson