Music Fundamentals A Balanced Approach

Harmonizing Music in a Major Key Using Roman Numerals

We can use roman numerals to add triads as an accompaniment to a melody; this is called “harmonization” of
amelody. Earlier in this module, we harmonized melodies using chord symbols.

Exercise 5

Draw triads in the bass clef to accompany the melody of “Kum Ba Yah,” a gospel song.

• Begin by determining the major key.


• Using the roman numerals given below each line, draw the corresponding triad; you may refer back to
  Exercise 2 (triads of the D major scale) to assist you.


• Place the triads in the bass clef directly beneath the melody note in the treble clef that corresponds to the
  triad. Be sure each measure has the correct number of beats (or rests).


• Play your composition, if possible.

“Kum Ba Yah,” African-American spiritual

TRIADS: ROMAN NUMERALS

Key: I IV I

IV V I IV

I IV I VIIV I

Originally a Nigerian folk melody, this African-American gospel song was titled “Come By Here, Oh Lord.” Over time, it was

rephrased and became known as “Kum Ba Yah.”

Cultural note

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