Leading Tone
Definition
The leading tone is the seventh scale degree that is one half step below the tonic. It has a strong pull towards resolving to the tonic and adds tension and excitement to music.
Related terms
Dominant Function Chord: The dominant function chord contains the leading tone and creates tension before resolving to the tonic. It sets up expectations for resolution.
Tonic: The tonic is the central or home key of a musical piece. The leading tone's pull towards it adds excitement and contributes to its sense of resolution.
Submediant: The submediant is a chord built on the sixth scale degree. While not directly related to leading tones, it often appears in progressions that involve leading tones, adding variety and interest to music.
"Leading Tone" appears in:
Study guides (7)
AP Music Theory - 1.4 Major Scales and Scale Degrees
AP Music Theory - 2.1 Minor Scales: Natural, Harmonic, and Melodic
AP Music Theory - 2.11 Texture and Texture Types
AP Music Theory - 4.1 Harmony and Voice Leading I
AP Music Theory - 4.2 SATB Voice Leading
AP Music Theory - 4.3 Harmonic Progression, Functional Harmony, and Cadences
AP Music Theory - 5.5 Cadences and Predominant Function
Additional resources (3)
AP Music Theory - Unit 1 Overview: Pitch, Major Scales and Key Signatures, Rhythm, Meter, and Expressive Elements
AP Music Theory - Unit 4 Overview: Harmony and Voice Leading I (Chord Function, Cadence, and Phrase)
AP Music Theory - 6.4 Embellishing Tones: Identifying and Writing Suspensions; Identifying Retardations
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Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.