Parallel Fifths

Two voices move in parallel motion

Parallel fifths refer to two voices or chords in music that move in parallel motion and maintain a perfect fifth interval between them, either ascending or descending. In Western classical music, parallel fifths are generally considered to be dissonant and improper in harmony, as they can make the sound become monotonous and lack variation.

Example of Parallel Fifths

Why Are Parallel Fifths Bad Voice Leading?

Writer: Frankie Chan