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Composer's Handbook

Pedal Point

A pedal point is a sustained note, usually in the bass, held while harmonies change above it.

Try this

Hold C in the bass while the chords above move F, G, C.

Example

F/C (C–F–A–C), G/C (C–G–B–D), C (C–E–G–C).

Listen for

Bach, Prelude in C major, BWV 846 (closing bars)

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