Embedded Structural Modes: Unifying Scale Degrees and Harmonic Functions

Abstract

The paper offers an integration of the theory of structural modes, functional theory and diatonic scale degrees. In analogy to the parsimonious voice leading between generic diatonic triads we study parsimonious function leading between embedded structural modes. A combinatorics of diatonic embeddings of structural modes is given. In four analytical examples we study the interaction of relative minor and major modes within an encompassing diatonic collection. Finally we discuss alternative possibilities for the interpretation of the diminished fifth as a fundament progression.