In music, a sequence is the repetition of a melodic phrase at a higher or lower pitch but without any key change. If the repetition is purely melodic, it is called a melodic sequence; if it involves a progression of chords, it is a harmonic sequence, and if slight variations are needed because the phrase involves semitones when moved up or down, this is a tonal sequence. When a change of key occurs but the melodic or harmonic pattern remains the same, the correct term for the sequence is a rosalia.
Sequences were skilfully used by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Romantic composers in the nineteenth century loved to build up dramatic tension by means of sequences urging the music on to a climax. The word is also applied to a medieval chant which was introduced into the Mass after the Gradual and the Alleluia - i.e. a sequential addition. The practice of interpolating such hymns was widespread until 1560, when the Council of Trent abolished all save four: the Victimae paschali laudes at Easter; Veni sancte spiritus at Whitsun; Lauda Sion for Corpus Christi; and the Dies Irae for a Requiem Mass. In 1727 a further sequence was allowed, the Stabat Mater. Research Sequence
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Music
Research Sequence