N1 component reflects difference of terminal chords in three-chord sequences

We understand from experience that musical contexts are formed when chords are combined according to the rules of harmony. In this study, the N1 component of the auditory-evoked potential was measured using comparable three-chord sequences; these sequences were constructed as a consecutive task (cf.C-C-C vs. Cm-Cm-Cm; control) and a cadence task (cf.C-G-C vs. C-G-Cm). In the cadence task, compared with cadences ending with a major chord (anticipated chord), those ending with a minor chord (unanticipated chord) showed a significantly larger amplitude of N1 waves. These components of auditory-evoked potentials reflect the effect of chord progression in musical perception and suggest that the musical context is recognized at least 100 ms after a chord is played.