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Secondary dominant

Definition

A secondary dominant is when a non-diatonic chord (usually V or V7) is used to temporarily tonicize another diatonic chord within a key.

Related terms

Tonicization: The process by which a non-tonic chord becomes temporarily tonic within its own key.

Dominant function: The tendency for certain chords to create tension and resolve to another specific chord.

Modulation: Changing from one key to another within a piece of music.

"Secondary dominant" appears in:

Additional resources (1)

  • AP Music Theory - 7.3 Tonicization through Secondary Leading Tone Chords

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About Us

About Fiveable

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Privacy Policy

CCPA Privacy Policy

Resources

Cram Mode

AP Score Calculators

Study Guides

Practice Quizzes

Glossary

Cram Events

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Crisis Text Line

Help Center

© 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.