Predominant Seventh Chords

Definition

Predominant seventh chords are a type of chord used in harmonic progressions, typically occurring before the dominant chord. They serve to create tension and prepare the listener for the resolution that follows, often leading to the dominant or V chord. These chords enhance harmonic movement and provide a sense of direction within a piece, often contributing to the overall structure and expressiveness of the music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Predominant seventh chords are commonly built on the second or fourth scale degrees, such as ii7 or IV7, which naturally lead into the V chord.
2. These chords contain a seventh note in addition to the triad, creating added tension that resolves when moving to the dominant chord.
3. In classical harmony, predominant seventh chords help establish a strong tonal center, guiding listeners through the expected progression of tension and resolution.
4. They can appear in various inversions and voicings, allowing for rich harmonic textures and smoother voice leading in compositions.
5. The use of predominant seventh chords is not limited to classical music; they can also be found in jazz and popular music, enriching harmonic language.

Review Questions

• How do predominant seventh chords function within a harmonic progression?
  • Predominant seventh chords play a crucial role in preparing the listener for the dominant chord by creating tension that seeks resolution. They typically appear before the dominant chord and contribute to a sense of forward motion in the progression. For example, a ii7 chord can lead directly into a V7 chord, establishing a strong sense of direction towards the tonic.
• Compare and contrast predominant seventh chords with dominant seventh chords in terms of their roles and resolutions in harmonic progressions.
  • Predominant seventh chords function primarily to prepare for the dominant seventh chords, which then resolve to the tonic. While predominant seventh chords create tension that is designed to lead into the dominant, dominant seventh chords are focused on resolving that tension directly into the tonic. Essentially, predominant chords set up the harmonic journey while dominant chords fulfill it.
• Evaluate how predominant seventh chords contribute to the overall expressiveness and structure of a musical piece.
  • Predominant seventh chords enhance expressiveness by introducing tension that anticipates resolution, thus engaging listeners emotionally. Their placement within a harmonic structure helps shape the narrative arc of music by guiding transitions between themes and sections. By carefully using predominant seventh chords, composers can effectively manipulate musical tension and release, creating a more compelling listening experience.

Related terms

Subdominant Chord: The chord built on the fourth degree of the scale, often leading to the dominant chord in a progression.

Dominant Seventh Chord:

A seventh chord built on the fifth scale degree, typically leading to the tonic chord and providing strong resolution.

Harmonic Function: The role that a chord plays within a progression, such as tonic, predominant, or dominant, determining its relationship to other chords.