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What does harmonic rhythm describe in music?

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classical poetic meter — rhythm Classical poetic meter in music.

Harmonic rhythm describes the time pattern that controls the change of chords within a musical composition.12

Because rhythm is the fundamental way music is organized in time, it dictates when harmonic shifts occur. The pace of these changes relative to the underlying musical rhythm defines the harmonic rhythm:34
* Rapid harmonic rhythm: Occurs when chords change frequently.1
* Slow harmonic rhythm: Occurs when there is a more leisurely pace of chord change.1

By varying the harmonic rhythm, a composer can create contrast, establish tension, and define the musical form of a piece.13