progressionsthat

Progressionsthat is a term encountered in some online music theory discussions to describe a class of chord progressions that emphasize forward motion toward cadence. It is a neologism, formed from progression and that, and is not part of formal music theory canon. In most references, it appears as a colloquial label rather than a standardized concept.

In this use, a progressionsthat refers to a progression designed to create a strong sense of direction or momentum. Key features often include directional voice-leading, a tendency for harmonic movement to push toward a target cadence, and the reiteration or variation of a motive that sustains motion across phrases. The term is typically applied descriptively rather than as a prescriptive rule.

Examples commonly discussed under progressionsthat include familiar progressions that drive toward resolution, such as ii–V–I in jazz contexts, or I–VI–IV–V in pop contexts, where the sequence consistently propels harmonic tension forward. Analysts may also highlight patterns that cycle through related keys or use cadential figures to heighten anticipation.

Applications and usage vary by community. In teaching, progressionsthat can serve as a heuristic for recognizing how certain progressions generate momentum and narrative drive. In composition, it offers a vocabulary for selecting progressions that reliably push toward a sense of arrival while allowing room for variation.

See also: chord progression, harmonic progression, voice leading. Note that progressionsthat remains a niche, informal label; readers should consult the surrounding discussion to understand the particular definition being used in a given source.