Predominant Triads

Definition

Predominant triads are the chords that typically precede the dominant chord in a harmonic progression, creating tension and preparing the way for resolution. They play a crucial role in establishing the direction of a musical phrase, often leading to the dominant chord and ultimately to the tonic. The most common predominant triads are the supertonic (ii) and the subdominant (IV), which set up a strong sense of movement toward the dominant.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The predominant triads ii and IV often appear before the dominant chord V in a harmonic progression, creating tension that resolves to the tonic I.
2. In major keys, the ii chord is typically a minor triad, while the IV chord is usually a major triad, contributing to their distinct sound.
3. Predominant triads can also be extended into seventh chords, such as ii7 and IV7, enhancing their function and richness within a progression.
4. These chords help define the tonality of a piece, guiding listeners through the established key center and preparing for resolutions.
5. When analyzing music, identifying predominant triads can provide insight into the overall structure and emotional direction of the piece.

Review Questions

• How do predominant triads function within a harmonic progression leading to a dominant chord?
  • Predominant triads serve as a preparatory step leading into the dominant chord, creating a sense of tension that resolves when moving to the tonic. The common predominant triads, ii and IV, create an expectation for movement towards V. This sequence helps establish tonal direction and prepares listeners for resolution, making them essential components in harmonic progressions.
• Discuss how the quality of predominant triads changes when extended to seventh chords and how this impacts their function in music.
  • When predominant triads are extended to seventh chords, such as ii7 or IV7, their function becomes richer and more complex. The addition of the seventh creates more tension and enhances the push towards the dominant chord. This expanded harmonic vocabulary allows composers to create more nuanced emotional effects and intricate progressions, contributing to a deeper musical narrative.
• Evaluate how predominant triads contribute to establishing tonality and listener expectations in tonal music.
  • Predominant triads are critical in establishing tonality by providing structural support that directs listeners through harmonic progressions. By preceding dominant chords, they create an expectation for resolution back to the tonic. This expectation plays a significant role in shaping how listeners perceive tension and release within music. Analyzing their usage across various pieces reveals how composers manipulate these harmonies to convey emotional journeys and maintain coherence within their compositions.

Related terms

Dominant Triad: The dominant triad is built on the fifth scale degree and typically resolves to the tonic, creating a sense of completion in a harmonic progression.

Tonic Triad: The tonic triad is built on the first scale degree and serves as the home base or point of resolution in tonal music.

Harmonic Progression:

A harmonic progression is a sequence of chords played in succession that creates a sense of movement and direction in music.