Predominant

Definition

Predominant refers to a category of chords that serve a specific function within tonal music, typically leading to the dominant chord. These chords create a sense of tension that naturally resolves to the dominant, helping to establish a harmonic progression. In this context, the predominant chords contribute to the overall structure of musical phrases, enhancing the flow and emotional impact of the music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In tonal harmony, predominant chords often include the ii (supertonic) and IV (subdominant) chords, which lead to the dominant chord (V).
2. The use of predominant chords enhances the harmonic progression by creating movement and preparing the listener for a resolution.
3. Predominant chords can be found in various musical styles, including classical, jazz, and popular music, showcasing their versatility.
4. When predominant chords are used effectively, they contribute to a satisfying sense of tension and release within a musical phrase.
5. Understanding predominant chords is essential for analyzing and composing music, as they form a crucial part of common harmonic progressions.

Review Questions

• How do predominant chords contribute to harmonic progression in tonal music?
  • Predominant chords play a crucial role in harmonic progression by creating tension that leads to the dominant chord. By using chords such as ii or IV, composers can build a sense of anticipation and prepare listeners for the eventual resolution to the dominant. This movement from predominant to dominant creates a satisfying flow in music, enhancing emotional expression and coherence.
• Compare and contrast the functions of predominant and dominant chords in a harmonic progression.
  • Predominant chords serve to build tension and lead toward the dominant chord, while dominant chords are responsible for creating strong resolution back to the tonic. Predominants like ii or IV create a pathway towards V, where the dominant’s tension culminates before resolving to I. This relationship between them is vital for creating effective musical phrases and understanding tonal harmony.
• Evaluate the importance of understanding predominant chords for both music analysis and composition.
  • Understanding predominant chords is essential for analyzing music because they are integral to recognizing harmonic progressions and their emotional impacts. In composition, knowledge of predominants allows musicians to craft transitions that effectively guide listeners through musical ideas. By mastering this concept, composers can create compelling tension and resolutions that enhance their works' overall structure and expressiveness.

Related terms

Dominant Chord: A chord built on the fifth scale degree that creates strong tension, usually resolving to the tonic chord.

Tonic Chord:

The chord built on the first scale degree, serving as the home base or resolution point in a key.

Subdominant Chord: A chord built on the fourth scale degree, often functioning as a bridge between the tonic and dominant chords.