Is it possible to start out on a nonharmonic tone then play its resolution?

Question

For an example if I used an escape tone from F major to C major, using a B-flat note to G, once the chord changes from F major to C major. In all examples I've seen on non-harmonic tones it seems you have to start from the chord tones itself, then step or leap up to the non tone, but can you possibly just play the non chord itself without having to approach it by any of the chord tones?

Answer 1

Music is an art. There is no one right answer.

I would say try it, listen to it. Does it lead the music where you want to go? In a way that you like and thinks suits the music you are creating? Passing tones, even at the beginning of the music are a time honored tradition. If you like it and think it works, go with it!

Once you've done the basic work, drop the piece and ignore for 3-4 days. That way you won't be so attached to the ideas as to be blind to the sounds of the music (this works great for papers and essays too!). Then try it out again. If you still like it and think it works, you are probably right! Not that everyone will agree with you. That just never happens if you nit pick.

Answer 2

Is it possible, strictly speaking? Yes. This is art, you can do whatever you want. :)

I think what you wanted to know, though, is if it's a good idea. That depends on what style you want and what you want to achieve with your piece. I'm a bit confused as to exactly what you want to do, though. From what you told me, it sounds like starting on a non harmonic tone could greatly weaken the tonality of the music, but that could easily be changed if you established the key better later on.