Supertonic Seventh Chord

Definition

A Supertonic Seventh Chord is a four-note chord built on the supertonic scale degree (the second scale degree) and includes a root, a major or minor third, a perfect fifth, and a minor seventh. This chord functions as a predominant chord in harmonic progressions, leading into the dominant chord, and adds tension that resolves nicely to the dominant, making it an essential component in creating movement within a piece of music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Supertonic Seventh Chord can be found in both major and minor keys, where its construction depends on the quality of the triad formed by its root.
2. In a major key, the Supertonic Seventh is typically a minor seventh chord (e.g., D7 in C major), while in a natural minor key it is usually a half-diminished seventh chord (e.g., Bm7♭5 in A minor).
3. This chord often appears before the dominant chord in progressions, creating a typical 'ii-V-I' movement.
4. The tension created by the Supertonic Seventh Chord helps facilitate resolution to the dominant chord, which adds depth to harmonic progressions.
5. It can also function in different inversions, allowing composers to create smoother voice leading and enhance musical expressiveness.

Review Questions

• How does the Supertonic Seventh Chord function within harmonic progressions?
  • The Supertonic Seventh Chord serves as a predominant chord that typically leads into the dominant chord. Its structure creates tension that naturally resolves when moving to the dominant. This makes it an essential element in common progressions like 'ii-V-I', where it prepares the listener for the strong resolution provided by the dominant.
• Compare the Supertonic Seventh Chord in major keys versus minor keys, including their characteristics.
  • In major keys, the Supertonic Seventh Chord is usually a minor seventh chord, consisting of a root, minor third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. For instance, in C major, this would be D7. In contrast, in minor keys like A natural minor, it becomes a half-diminished seventh chord (Bm7♭5), which includes a diminished triad and a minor seventh. This difference in construction affects their resolution tendencies and overall sound within harmonic contexts.
• Evaluate how different inversions of the Supertonic Seventh Chord impact voice leading in harmonic progressions.
  • Different inversions of the Supertonic Seventh Chord can significantly enhance voice leading by providing smoother transitions between chords. For example, using first or second inversions allows individual voices to move by smaller intervals rather than larger leaps. This creates a more cohesive sound and helps maintain melodic lines throughout progressions. By strategically employing these inversions, composers can add expressive qualities and richness to their music while effectively guiding listeners through harmonic shifts.

Related terms

Predominant Function:

The role of certain chords in a progression that prepares for the dominant chord, creating a sense of motion and expectation.

Dominant Seventh Chord:

A four-note chord built on the dominant scale degree (the fifth) that includes a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh, known for creating strong resolution to the tonic.

Diatonic Harmony: The harmony that is built using only the notes from a specific scale or key, providing a framework for understanding chord functions like that of the Supertonic Seventh Chord.