Music theory · Advanced
Chromaticism & Late Romantic Harmony
Wagner, extended tertian chords, and the edge of tonality
By the late 19th century, composers were pushing tonality to its breaking point. This module traces the harmonic language of late Brahms, Wagner, Strauss, and Scriabin, extended tertian harmony, chromatic voice leading, and the gradual dissolution of functional harmony.
Before this module
What this module covers
Chromatic Voice Leading
Extended Tertian Harmony
Wagner-Era Chromaticism
Late Romantic String Writing
The Breakdown of Functional Tonality
What comes next
Planning this part of your learning
- Where should I start with chromaticism & late romantic harmony?
- The curriculum places Advanced Ear Training & Sight-Singing before this module. Review those topics if they are unfamiliar. The first lesson is “Chromatic Voice Leading”: Half-step voice motion that obscures key centers. The order is a study guide, not proof that every learner needs the same pace.
- How long is the chromaticism & late romantic harmony module?
- The 5 listed lessons total approximately 120 minutes of material. That estimate describes lesson content, not the practice time needed to become comfortable with wagner, extended tertian chords, and the edge of tonality. Revisit one task at a time and use feedback from a teacher where physical technique is involved.
- What can I try here without an account?
- The chromaticism & late romantic harmony description, lesson sequence and prerequisite links are public. There is no full worked lesson sample for this module yet. The linked public tools and references are free. A free account includes the complete five-lesson foundation module in each instrument and five lessons in music theory, with saved progress and no expiry. Later lessons require the relevant paid package.
Open this module in Arco
Lessons include the synchronised staff, keyboard, and fingerboard view, recorded string playback, and quizzes that track your answers. The complete five-lesson foundation module in each instrument and five music theory lessons are free with an account, including saved progress and no time limit. Later lessons require the relevant paid package. Public samples do not assess physical technique or certify exam readiness.