Suspension
A suspension is a note that is already there before the chord tone it belongs to sounds. It falls on a strong beat, forms a tension with the chord and then usually resolves a step downward into the actual chord tone.
- Type
- non-chord tone, delays the chord tone
- Usually on
- a strong beat
- Resolution
- by step, usually downward
- Counterpart
- passing note
Tension in miniature
The page Cadences describes the basic arc of harmony: the dominant builds tension, the tonic releases it. The suspension applies the same principle to a single note. It delays the expected chord tone and so makes the resolution audible.
Suspension F over C major: F resolves to E
In the first bar the F is a chord tone, for example over F major. In the second bar the chord changes to C major (C–E–G), but the F stays on the strong first beat instead of making way for the chord tone E. Only on the third beat does the melody reach the E. The second F is the marked suspension.
In the first chord the F rubs against G; only in the second are all the notes chord tones. Like a build-up and release.
Suspension or passing note?
Both are non-chord tones, but they sound different because they fall on different beats.
| Passing note | Suspension | |
|---|---|---|
| Beat | weak | strong |
| Preparation | none needed | the note is often already in the chord before |
| Resolution | carries straight on | resolves a step, usually downward |
| Effect | flowing | tense, then relaxed |
That is the general textbook distinction. Strong and weak beats are explained on the page Rhythm.
How a suspension works
The article The leading tone describes how a single semitone pulls into a target note. With the suspension it is the same: the note is not wrong, it just wants to move on. When you play it, do not leave it too quickly, so that the tension can be heard.
Continue on Maikstrings
Related terms
Passing noteCadenceDominantTonicBeat
Editor: Maik Krohm · reviewed on 3 October 2026
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