key term - Dominant

Definition

The dominant is the fifth scale degree of a diatonic scale, and it plays a crucial role in establishing tonality and creating tension that resolves to the tonic. It is often represented by the V chord, which is a major chord in major keys and a minor chord in minor keys. This chord functions as a pivotal element in harmonic progressions, guiding the music toward resolution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The dominant chord is built from the notes of the fifth scale degree, the seventh, and the second scale degrees, giving it a strong, stable sound that seeks resolution.
2. In major keys, the dominant chord (V) is a major triad, while in minor keys, it often includes a raised seventh degree, creating a leading tone that enhances its tension.
3. The dominant seventh chord adds an extra note (the lowered seventh) to the V chord, increasing tension and urgency in harmonic progressions.
4. Common progressions like V-I (dominant to tonic) are foundational in establishing key centers and resolving musical phrases.
5. Dominant chords can also appear in various inversions, allowing for smoother voice leading and more interesting harmonic textures.

Review Questions

• How does the dominant chord function within tonal music to create tension and lead to resolution?
  • The dominant chord functions as a key player in tonal music by creating tension that naturally resolves back to the tonic. This tension arises from its position as the fifth scale degree, which establishes a strong relationship with the tonic. The movement from V to I (dominant to tonic) not only reinforces the sense of key but also creates an expectation for resolution that propels the music forward.
• In what ways does the dominant seventh chord differ from the regular dominant chord, and how does this impact voice leading?
  • The dominant seventh chord differs from the regular dominant chord by adding an extra note: the lowered seventh degree. This addition increases tension, making it even more effective in creating a pull towards resolution. In terms of voice leading, this chord facilitates smoother transitions to the tonic by providing stepwise motion in the voices, particularly through the resolution of the seventh to the tonic note.
• Evaluate how understanding the dominant's role enhances one's ability to analyze musical compositions and their harmonic structures.
  • Understanding the role of the dominant enriches one's ability to analyze musical compositions by illuminating how tension and resolution drive harmonic progressions. By identifying dominant chords and their resolutions, listeners can grasp how composers manipulate these elements to convey emotion and structure within their works. This knowledge also aids performers in interpreting music with an awareness of essential harmonic relationships, ultimately leading to more expressive renditions.

Related terms

Tonic:

The tonic is the first scale degree of a diatonic scale and serves as the home base or point of resolution in tonal music.

Subdominant:

The subdominant is the fourth scale degree of a diatonic scale, functioning as a precursor to the dominant and helping to create motion toward it.

Cadence:

A cadence is a harmonic progression that creates a sense of resolution at the end of a phrase, often involving dominant chords leading back to the tonic.