Re: trill notes

[Kieren MacMillan]

Hi Bert,

> I would say that in C-minor (if the harmonic structure, context etc  
> is C-minor) I would not use Fb, but E,
> because the flat version of IV grade seems very strange for me,  
> while the neutralized version of  III grade is common.

If it's a C-minor chord, and the trill is on degree III from above, I  
would personally use the flattened IV: in standard Western harmony  
the resolution tendency of a flattened note (e.g., IV-flat) is  
downwards, whereas the resolution tendency of a raised note (e.g.,  
"neutralized" III) is not. In C# minor, would you use E sharp instead  
of F-natural?

This kind of decision is definitely context- (and, often, person-)  
specific: no "rule" can ever be universally helpful.

Best regards,
Kieren.