Ii chord (Roman numeral ii)

Definition

The ii chord, represented by the Roman numeral ii, is a minor chord built on the second scale degree of a major scale. It serves a crucial role in creating harmonic progressions, facilitating functional harmony, and contributing to cadences by leading toward the dominant chord (V) in Western music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ii chord is typically built from the notes of the second degree of the major scale, forming a minor triad composed of the root, minor third, and perfect fifth.
2. In the key of C major, the ii chord is D minor (D-F-A), and it can often precede the V chord to create strong resolutions.
3. The ii chord frequently appears in common progressions such as ii-V-I, which establishes a strong cadence back to the tonic.
4. Functionally, the ii chord is often seen as a predominant chord that prepares for the dominant chord in harmonic sequences.
5. In jazz and other contemporary styles, variations of the ii chord can include extensions like 7th chords or altered tones to create richer harmonic textures.

Review Questions

• How does the ii chord function within harmonic progressions in tonal music?
  • The ii chord functions as a predominant chord that leads to the dominant (V) chord in harmonic progressions. By establishing tension and movement away from the tonic, it prepares the listener for the eventual resolution back to the tonic. This relationship creates a sense of direction and flow within a piece of music, allowing for more complex emotional expressions.
• Compare the roles of the ii chord and the IV chord in terms of their contributions to functional harmony.
  • Both the ii chord and IV chord serve as predominant chords in functional harmony, but they have different tendencies. The ii chord typically resolves to the dominant (V) chord, while the IV chord can lead either to the dominant or back to the tonic. This difference in function allows composers to create varied harmonic textures and emotional landscapes, enriching musical phrases through different paths of resolution.
• Evaluate how variations of the ii chord contribute to modern musical styles compared to classical harmonic practices.
  • Variations of the ii chord, such as 7th chords or extended harmonies found in jazz, add complexity and richness that differ from classical practices where triads predominated. In modern music styles, these variations allow for more nuanced emotional expression and intricate harmonies. This evolution reflects changing aesthetic values in music over time, where musicians increasingly explore alternative resolutions and chromatic possibilities beyond traditional functional harmony.

Related terms

Tonic:

The first scale degree of a scale, which serves as the home base or point of resolution in tonal music.

Dominant:

The fifth scale degree, often represented as V, which creates tension that seeks resolution back to the tonic.

Subdominant:

The fourth scale degree, represented as IV, which often leads to the dominant chord and supports harmonic movement.