Secondary Dominant Chords

Definition

Secondary dominant chords are chords that function as the dominant (V) of a chord other than the tonic in a key. They create tension and resolution by temporarily emphasizing a diatonic chord, allowing for greater harmonic movement and color. This technique adds depth to harmony and enhances voice leading by introducing non-diatonic tones that resolve to diatonic chords.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Secondary dominant chords are not part of the original key but lead to diatonic chords, creating a momentary shift in tonal focus.
2. They are typically notated as V/x, where x represents the diatonic chord being targeted, such as V/ii for the dominant of ii.
3. In part writing, secondary dominants often resolve down by step to their target chords, maintaining smooth voice leading.
4. The use of secondary dominants can enhance tension and anticipation in music, making cadences more compelling.
5. Composers often use secondary dominants in modulation to smoothly transition between keys or sections within a piece.

Review Questions

• How do secondary dominant chords contribute to harmonic tension and resolution within a musical context?
  • Secondary dominant chords create tension by functioning as the dominant of a non-tonic chord. When these chords resolve to their respective target diatonic chords, they release this tension and create a satisfying harmonic resolution. This process enriches the overall harmonic progression by adding layers of complexity and movement, making the music feel more dynamic.
• In what ways can the proper voice leading techniques enhance the effectiveness of secondary dominant chords in part writing?
  • Proper voice leading is essential when working with secondary dominant chords as it ensures smooth transitions between chords. By resolving voices stepwise and maintaining common tones where possible, composers can achieve a fluid connection between the secondary dominant and its target chord. This careful management of voices helps create clearer harmonic progressions and keeps the musical line cohesive.
• Evaluate how the use of secondary dominants affects tonal relationships and modulation within a composition.
  • The use of secondary dominants significantly impacts tonal relationships by temporarily shifting focus away from the tonic. This technique allows composers to introduce new harmonic colors and create moments of tension that enhance emotional expression. Furthermore, secondary dominants can facilitate modulation by establishing a new tonic through its dominant function, thereby creating seamless transitions between different keys while enriching the overall harmonic landscape of the composition.

Related terms

Diatonic Chord: A chord that is built from the notes within a specific key without altering any notes.

Tonicization:

The process of temporarily treating a chord other than the tonic as if it were a tonic, often achieved using secondary dominants.

Leading Tone:

The seventh scale degree of a major or minor scale, which has a strong tendency to resolve to the tonic.