Viiø7 Chord (Half-Diminished Seventh Chord)

Definition

The viiø7 chord, or half-diminished seventh chord, consists of a root, minor third, diminished fifth, and minor seventh. This chord is commonly found in diatonic harmony, specifically as the seventh scale degree in both major and harmonic minor keys. Its unique structure gives it a distinct sound that typically resolves to a tonic chord, making it an essential component in voice leading and harmonic progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The viiø7 chord is built on the seventh degree of the scale, which means it has a strong tendency to resolve to the tonic chord.
2. In a major key, the viiø7 chord consists of the notes 7, 2, 4 (or 1), and 6 in scale degrees.
3. The half-diminished seventh chord can also function as a predominant chord, often leading into dominant chords in harmonic progressions.
4. In voice leading, it's important to move the individual voices of the viiø7 chord smoothly to their next destination, usually to avoid leaps that create tension.
5. The viiø7 chord is represented with a small circle and a '7' (ø7) in chord symbols, indicating its half-diminished quality.

Review Questions

• How does the viiø7 chord function within harmonic progressions?
  • The viiø7 chord functions primarily as a predominant chord in harmonic progressions. It creates tension that naturally resolves to the tonic chord. In both major and minor keys, this resolution provides a satisfying conclusion to musical phrases. Its unique structure allows it to set up movement towards more stable harmonies, making it an essential part of creating effective resolutions.
• What are some common voice leading practices when transitioning from a viiø7 chord to the tonic?
  • When transitioning from a viiø7 chord to the tonic, common voice leading practices include ensuring smooth motion between individual voices. Typically, the root of the viiø7 moves down by a half step to the tonic root. The other notes should resolve in such a way that minimal leaps occur, often moving stepwise or by small intervals. This careful attention to voice leading enhances the overall coherence and flow of the harmonic progression.
• Evaluate the role of viiø7 chords in both major and harmonic minor scales and their impact on musical tension and resolution.
  • The role of viiø7 chords is significant in both major and harmonic minor scales. In major keys, they enhance harmonic interest and contribute to musical tension by setting up resolutions to the tonic. In harmonic minor keys, they play a vital role in reinforcing traditional cadences by adding tension before resolving. The presence of this chord creates anticipation in music; its unique sound captures listeners' attention while guiding them back to stability through resolution. This dual role underscores its importance in composing engaging music.

Related terms

Diminished Seventh Chord: A diminished seventh chord is made up of a root, minor third, diminished fifth, and diminished seventh, creating a tense and unstable sound that often resolves to a consonant chord.

Tonic:

The tonic is the first scale degree of a key, serving as the home base or point of resolution for harmonic progressions.

Voice Leading:

Voice leading refers to the smooth movement of individual melodic lines or voices from one chord to another, emphasizing the principles of counterpoint and harmonic progression.