Dominant Triads

Definition

Dominant triads are three-note chords built on the fifth degree of a scale, typically represented as a major chord in major keys and a minor chord in minor keys. These triads play a crucial role in establishing harmonic tension and resolution, creating a sense of movement towards the tonic or home chord. In harmony and voice leading, dominant triads are essential for understanding cadences and the relationships between different chords.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a major key, the dominant triad is formed by the notes of the fifth scale degree (the dominant), which is typically a major chord consisting of the root, major third, and perfect fifth.
2. In a minor key, the dominant triad is usually a minor chord, but it can also be altered to become a major chord by raising the seventh scale degree, creating a leading tone that enhances resolution to the tonic.
3. Dominant triads are integral to creating tension in music; their natural tendency is to resolve to the tonic triad, creating a satisfying sense of completion.
4. Voice leading involves smoothly transitioning from one chord to another, and dominant triads often require careful attention to avoid parallel fifths and octaves when connecting to tonic chords.
5. The use of dominant seventh chords, which include an additional note (the flattened seventh), further intensifies the pull towards the tonic, making it a vital component in harmony.

Review Questions

• How do dominant triads function within the context of harmonic progression?
  • Dominant triads function as pivotal points in harmonic progression by creating tension that seeks resolution. When a dominant triad is played, it typically leads into the tonic triad, establishing a strong sense of movement and closure. This relationship between dominant and tonic triads is foundational in Western music theory and helps shape musical phrases and cadences.
• Compare and contrast dominant triads in major and minor keys, focusing on their construction and function.
  • In major keys, the dominant triad consists of a major chord built on the fifth scale degree, while in minor keys, it can be either a minor chord or an altered major chord that includes a raised seventh scale degree. The construction difference affects their function; while both create tension that resolves to the tonic triad, the altered dominant triad in minor keys enhances this tension due to its leading tone, providing stronger resolution than its purely minor counterpart.
• Evaluate how understanding dominant triads enhances your ability to analyze and compose music effectively.
  • Understanding dominant triads enhances music analysis and composition by providing insight into how chords interact within harmonic progressions. Recognizing their role in creating tension and guiding resolutions allows composers to craft more effective cadences and transitions. Moreover, analyzing pieces with a focus on dominant triads helps identify common patterns and techniques used by composers throughout history, deepening one’s appreciation for musical structure and creativity.

Related terms

Tonic Triad: The tonic triad is the three-note chord built on the first degree of a scale, serving as the home base or tonal center in a piece of music.

Subdominant Triad: The subdominant triad is the three-note chord built on the fourth degree of a scale, often leading to the dominant triad in harmonic progressions.

Cadence:

A cadence is a musical phrase that brings a sense of closure or pause, often involving dominant triads resolving to tonic triads.