Dominant key

Definition

The dominant key is the key that is built on the fifth scale degree of a major or minor scale. It has a strong pull towards the tonic key and creates tension and resolution in music.

Analogy

Think of the dominant key as the superhero who saves the day. Just like how a superhero comes in with power and strength to resolve conflicts, the dominant key brings tension and then resolves it by leading back to the tonic key.

Related terms

Subdominant key: The subdominant key is built on the fourth scale degree of a major or minor scale. It provides a sense of stability and prepares for the dominant's tension.

Tonic key: The tonic key is considered home base in music. It is where a piece begins and ends, providing a sense of resolution and stability.

Leading tone: The leading tone is the seventh note of a diatonic scale, which has a strong tendency to resolve up to the tonic note. It adds tension and creates an urge for resolution.