Subdominant Seventh Chord

Definition

A subdominant seventh chord is a four-note chord built on the fourth degree of a scale, typically containing a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. This chord functions as a predominant chord that leads to the dominant chord, playing a vital role in establishing harmonic movement within a progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The subdominant seventh chord is typically represented as IV7 in Roman numeral analysis, where 'IV' indicates the fourth scale degree and '7' denotes the presence of the minor seventh.
2. In the key of C major, the subdominant seventh chord would be F7, consisting of the notes F, A, C, and Eb.
3. This chord often creates a sense of departure from the tonic, setting up a resolution to the dominant chord, which enhances forward motion in music.
4. When resolving, the subdominant seventh chord generally moves to the dominant chord by stepwise motion in the upper voices while retaining common tones in the bass.
5. Subdominant seventh chords are frequently used in various musical styles, including classical, jazz, and popular music, due to their ability to create tension and anticipation.

Review Questions

• How does the subdominant seventh chord function in relation to other chords within a musical progression?
  • The subdominant seventh chord functions as a predominant chord that leads to the dominant chord. By creating tension and setting up an expectation for resolution, it enhances the overall harmonic movement within a progression. It establishes a contrast to both the tonic and dominant chords, making it essential for developing effective musical phrases.
• Discuss the differences between subdominant seventh chords and dominant seventh chords regarding their roles in harmonic progressions.
  • While both subdominant seventh chords and dominant seventh chords are four-note structures that create tension, their roles differ significantly. The subdominant seventh chord acts as a predominant element that prepares for the arrival of the dominant chord. In contrast, the dominant seventh chord creates heightened tension that typically resolves directly to the tonic. This interplay is crucial for establishing effective cadences and resolutions in music.
• Evaluate how the use of subdominant seventh chords influences musical styles across genres like classical and jazz.
  • The use of subdominant seventh chords significantly influences various musical styles by adding depth and complexity to harmonic progressions. In classical music, they create smooth transitions between sections, while in jazz, they are often used for chromatic substitutions and extended harmonies. This versatility allows composers and musicians to explore new soundscapes and emotional expressions across different genres, enhancing both improvisation and composition.

Related terms

Dominant Seventh Chord:

A dominant seventh chord is built on the fifth scale degree and consists of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh, creating tension that resolves to the tonic.

Tonic:

The tonic is the first degree of the scale and serves as the home base or resolution point in a musical composition.

Harmonic Function: Harmonic function refers to the role that chords play in establishing the tonal center and creating motion within a progression.