Topmusicanswers
In European Classical music, the Neapolitan most commonly occurs in first inversion so that it is notated either as ♭II6 or N6 and normally referred to as a Neapolitan sixth chord. In C major or C minor, for example, a Neapolitan sixth chord in first inversion contains an interval of a minor sixth between F and D♭.
- How do you identify Neapolitan chords?
- Can Neapolitan chord be diminished?
- What is a Neapolitan fifth?
How do you identify Neapolitan chords?
How it is indicated in musical analysis: This chord is usually indicated by the letter N, and if in first inversion as N6, which is the most common usage. Some theory texts indicate this chord as bII (“flat II”). When you see the lowered 2nd scale degree in a pre-dominant chord at a cadence, it may be a Neapolitan.
Can Neapolitan chord be diminished?
It is permitted to write a diminished 3rd interval between the b2 and the 7 in the key; it is best to put this motion in an outer voice. Be careful to avoid the A2 interval when approaching or leaving this chord. The N is usually preceded by a VI, IV, or II. It may be preceded by a secondary dominant (V/N = bVI).
What is a Neapolitan fifth?
The Neapolitan chord is a major chord
The root is C (first note of the scale), the third is E (the third note on the C major scale). Finally, the fifth is G (the fifth note on the scale).
