Dominant

Definition

In music theory, the dominant is the fifth scale degree of a diatonic scale, often creating tension that resolves to the tonic. This concept plays a crucial role in harmonic progression, as it provides a sense of movement and expectation in musical compositions, especially in electronic music where harmonies can be manipulated in various ways to enhance emotional expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Western music theory, the dominant chord is typically built on the fifth degree and often has a major quality, leading to a sense of resolution when it moves to the tonic.
2. The dominant seventh chord adds an extra note to the basic dominant triad, which enhances tension and creates a stronger pull towards the tonic.
3. Electronic music often utilizes dominant chords creatively through modulation and effects, leading to unique harmonic textures that may differ from traditional practices.
4. The dominant can appear in various forms across different musical styles, from classical to modern genres, showing its versatility in creating harmonic interest.
5. Understanding the function of the dominant is essential for composers and producers in crafting effective transitions and emotional climaxes within their electronic pieces.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of the dominant contribute to harmonic progression in electronic music?
  • The dominant plays a key role in creating harmonic progression by generating tension that naturally resolves back to the tonic. In electronic music, producers can manipulate this tension through various techniques like modulation, effects, and layering sounds. By using dominant chords effectively, musicians can guide listeners' emotions and expectations, creating impactful moments throughout their compositions.
• Analyze how the dominant seventh chord differs from a standard dominant chord and its impact on musical texture.
  • The dominant seventh chord includes an additional note that adds complexity and richness compared to a standard dominant triad. This added tension helps propel the music towards resolution more forcefully when moving to the tonic. In electronic compositions, this richer texture allows for deeper emotional expression and can change the atmosphere of a piece, making it more dynamic and engaging for listeners.
• Evaluate the use of the dominant in contemporary electronic music compared to traditional harmonic practices.
  • In contemporary electronic music, the use of the dominant can be quite innovative compared to traditional practices. While classical compositions may strictly adhere to established harmonic rules, electronic artists often break conventions by manipulating dominant functions through sound design and production techniques. This leads to unique progressions that challenge listeners' expectations, allowing for greater creative freedom and exploration within musical structures.

Related terms

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

Subdominant: The subdominant is the fourth scale degree of a diatonic scale, often leading to the dominant and contributing to the overall harmonic structure.

Cadence: A cadence is a musical phrase that brings a piece to a close or a pause, often involving movement between the dominant and tonic to create resolution.