theory question

[Ekulati]

From what I understand, in 1439, harmonies were very simple and often just parallel 3rds and 5ths, typically with the root on the bottom.

I humbly suggest you listen to and study some 15th century music. Ockeghem, Josquin, etc. IMO harmonies used by much later composers, e.g. Haydn, were much simpler.

 

[JimmyM]

That's the kind of thinking that kills the blues I'm big on education, I'm big on knowing what each note does and why, but when it comes to writing a part, do in your heart what feels good, if it doesn't feel good, try something else till it does, and don't worry about modes.

 

[logdrum]

I thought he said G lydian and it seems like everyone is thinking D lydian. The #4th of a G lydian is C# and is also the 3rd of the A and the Maj7 of D, b7 of Mixo A would be G. It is an original song even though they are primarily blues. He said D not D7. Without hearing the song I won't dismiss what he is proposing.

 

[SteveCS]

I humbly suggest you listen to and study some 15th century music. Ockeghem, Josquin, etc. IMO harmonies used by much later composers, e.g. Haydn, were much simpler.

Quite true. As an extreme example, Tallis' 'Spem In Alium' must rank with the ultimate bridge between modal plainchant and what was to become 'common practice'...