V7 chord (dominant seventh)

Definition

A V7 chord, or dominant seventh chord, is a four-note chord consisting of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh above the root. This chord functions primarily to create tension that resolves to the tonic chord (I), making it essential in establishing key tonality. Its unique quality arises from the tritone interval between the third and the seventh, leading to a strong pull towards resolution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The V7 chord is built on the fifth scale degree of a major or minor scale, which contributes to its dominant function.
2. In a V7 chord, the tritone interval created between the third and the seventh can be resolved by moving each note by half step to create a consonant sound.
3. The dominant seventh chord is often used in cadences, particularly authentic cadences (V7-I), which emphasize the resolution back to the tonic.
4. A V7 chord can also include altered extensions, like adding a ninth, which can enhance its tension and color when resolving.
5. In jazz and popular music, V7 chords are frequently used with various voicings and inversions to create richer harmonic textures.

Review Questions

• How does the V7 chord function within a tonal framework?
  • The V7 chord functions as a dominant chord that creates tension and drives the music towards resolution. Its placement on the fifth scale degree establishes it as pivotal in establishing key tonality. When it resolves to the tonic (I), it reinforces the sense of closure and stability in a piece of music, which is fundamental to Western tonal harmony.
• Discuss how altering the notes in a V7 chord can impact its resolution characteristics.
  • Altering notes within a V7 chord can significantly affect its resolution. For instance, adding a ninth or changing the quality of any of its components can introduce additional tension or color. This alteration may require different resolution techniques and can create unique harmonic progressions that enrich musical texture while still maintaining that essential pull towards the tonic.
• Evaluate the role of V7 chords in contemporary genres compared to classical music.
  • In contemporary genres like jazz or pop, V7 chords serve not only as functional harmonies but also as vehicles for improvisation and creative expression. Musicians often utilize various voicings and extended chords that deviate from traditional classical resolutions. In classical music, V7 chords are more strictly adhered to their role in harmonic progression, focusing on functional resolution back to the tonic. This difference highlights how harmony evolves across different musical styles while maintaining core theoretical principles.

Related terms

Tonic:

The tonic is the first note of a scale and serves as the home base or resolution point for harmonic progressions.

Diatonic:

Diatonic refers to notes that are within a given scale, adhering to its specific pattern of whole and half steps.

Resolution:

Resolution is the process by which a dissonant chord (like V7) moves to a consonant chord (like I), creating a sense of closure in music.