põhiakord

Põhiakord is an Estonian term that translates to "fundamental chord" or "root chord." In music theory, it refers to the basic triad or chord built upon the root note of a scale or key. This chord is typically the tonic chord, which is the most stable and central chord in a given key. For example, in the key of C major, the põhiakord would be the C major triad (C-E-G).

Understanding the põhiakord is crucial for comprehending harmonic progressions. Most musical pieces revolve around the tonic chord, using it to establish the key and provide a sense of resolution. Other chords in a composition function in relation to the põhiakord, creating tension and release as they move away from and return to this fundamental harmony.

The concept of põhiakord is fundamental to tonal music. It serves as the anchor around which melodies and other harmonic elements are organized. The quality of the põhiakord (major, minor, diminished, augmented) directly reflects the mode of the key. For instance, a major key will have a major tonic chord, while a minor key will have a minor tonic chord.