Leading Tone Chords

Definition

Leading tone chords are built on the seventh scale degree of a key and typically function as predominant chords that create tension, leading to the tonic. These chords often serve to resolve to the tonic chord, enhancing the sense of motion in harmonic progressions. They are particularly significant in tonal music, where their use can establish strong resolutions that support melodic lines.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a major key, the leading tone is the seventh scale degree, which is raised to create a half step resolution to the tonic.
2. Leading tone chords can be triads or seventh chords, with the most common being the vii° or vii°7 chord in a major key.
3. In minor keys, the leading tone is also raised to form a leading tone chord, often making it a diminished chord.
4. These chords help create a sense of forward motion in harmonic progressions, contributing to overall musical tension.
5. Leading tone chords are essential for establishing functional harmony in Western music, particularly in classical and tonal contexts.

Review Questions

• How do leading tone chords function within harmonic progressions?
  • Leading tone chords create tension that resolves to the tonic chord, enhancing the sense of movement in harmonic progressions. When used effectively, they help establish a clear direction in music by leading listeners from a state of tension to resolution. This function is crucial for maintaining interest and engagement in tonal music, making leading tone chords important tools for composers.
• Discuss the differences between leading tone chords in major and minor keys.
  • In major keys, leading tone chords are typically built on the seventh scale degree as diminished triads or seventh chords (vii° or vii°7) and resolve strongly to the tonic. In minor keys, although the leading tone is also raised, it often results in a different quality of diminished chord. This alteration creates distinct resolutions and colorations in minor key progressions compared to their major counterparts. Understanding these differences enhances one's ability to analyze and compose effectively in both major and minor tonalities.
• Evaluate how leading tone chords contribute to the overall structure and emotional impact of a piece of music.
  • Leading tone chords play a critical role in shaping the emotional landscape of a piece by intensifying tension before resolving to stability. Their presence helps build anticipation, guiding listeners through moments of suspense and release that are essential for creating a compelling musical narrative. By effectively utilizing leading tone chords, composers can manipulate listeners' emotions and maintain interest throughout their compositions, demonstrating their significance in achieving dynamic musical expression.

Related terms

Tonic:

The first scale degree of a key, often referred to as the home chord that provides stability and resolution in music.

Dominant Chord: A chord built on the fifth scale degree that has a strong tendency to resolve to the tonic, often creating a sense of tension before release.

Subdominant Chord: The chord built on the fourth scale degree that often precedes the dominant chord, creating a smooth progression toward the tonic.