# Diatonic Harmony & Roman Numeral Analysis, Music theory

Chord functions, harmonic rhythm, and voice leading basics

Roman numeral analysis is the language every musician uses to discuss harmony. This module teaches you to hear and label the seven diatonic chords, understand their functional roles, recognize harmonic rhythm, and write smooth four-part voice leading.

Intermediate · 6 lessons · approximately 88 minutes of material (not a mastery deadline).

## Before this module
- [Rhythm Mastery & Complex Meters](/learn/theory/complex-meters), Compound time, irregular meters, polyrhythm, and hemiola

## What this module covers
1. **Roman Numeral Analysis**, The universal language of harmonic function (14 min)
2. **Chord Function: T, PD, D**, Tonic, predominant, dominant, the grammar of harmony (13 min)
3. **Harmonic Rhythm**, How fast chords change, and why it shapes musical energy (12 min)
4. **Four-Part Voice Leading Basics**, Soprano, alto, tenor, bass, how the voices move together (16 min)
5. **Cadence Types**, Authentic, half, deceptive, plagal, the punctuation of music (13 min)
6. **Harmonic Analysis Challenge**, Roman numeral analysis of a real string quartet movement (20 min)

## Practise with a free reference
- [Free metronome](/tools/metronome), Use a steady pulse while you count or repeat a short phrase.

## What comes next
- [Chord Inversions & Figured Bass](/learn/theory/chord-inversions), First, second, third inversions and Baroque continuo

## Where should I start with diatonic harmony & roman numeral analysis?
The curriculum places Rhythm Mastery & Complex Meters before this module. Review those topics if they are unfamiliar. The first lesson is “Roman Numeral Analysis”: The universal language of harmonic function. The order is a study guide, not proof that every learner needs the same pace.

## How long is the diatonic harmony & roman numeral analysis module?
The 6 listed lessons total approximately 88 minutes of material. That estimate describes lesson content, not the practice time needed to become comfortable with chord functions, harmonic rhythm, and voice leading basics. 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 diatonic harmony & roman numeral analysis 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.

## Continue in Arco
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 your physical technique or certify exam readiness.

[See packages and pricing](/pricing) · [Back to the music theory curriculum](/learn/theory)

Canonical source: https://arcosounds.com/learn/theory/diatonic-harmony