Dominant function

Definition

The dominant function refers to the role played by the fifth scale degree in a tonal context, primarily serving as a point of tension that resolves to the tonic. This function is crucial for establishing harmonic direction and creating a sense of resolution in music. It often involves the use of dominant chords that lead back to the home chord, generating a feeling of completeness and closure in a musical phrase.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a major key, the dominant scale degree is the fifth note, while in a minor key, it can be raised to create a leading tone.
2. The dominant function is typically realized through dominant chords, which create tension that resolves to the tonic chord.
3. The V-I progression (dominant to tonic) is one of the most fundamental progressions in Western music, establishing a strong sense of resolution.
4. Altered dominant chords can be used to increase tension and add color before resolving to the tonic, often found in jazz and classical music.
5. Secondary dominants can temporarily shift the tonal center by introducing a new dominant function to lead into diatonic chords other than the tonic.

Review Questions

• How does the dominant function contribute to harmonic progression in music?
  • The dominant function creates a sense of tension that is essential for driving harmonic progression. When a piece moves from the dominant chord to the tonic, this V-I resolution provides a feeling of completion. By establishing this tension and release, composers guide listeners through their musical narratives, making them feel satisfied when returning to the tonic.
• What role do altered chords play in enhancing the dominant function within a composition?
  • Altered chords add complexity and richness to the dominant function by introducing notes that deviate from standard triads. These alterations can intensify the tension created by the dominant chord, making its eventual resolution to the tonic more impactful. Composers often use these altered dominants strategically to surprise or engage listeners before resolving harmonically.
• Evaluate how secondary dominants expand the concept of dominant function beyond traditional tonal frameworks.
  • Secondary dominants broaden the concept of dominant function by introducing temporary dominant chords that target non-tonic chords within the key. This approach allows composers to create more elaborate harmonic progressions and modulate smoothly between different keys. By employing secondary dominants, musicians can develop richer and more varied tonal landscapes, enhancing expressiveness and emotional depth in their works.

Related terms

Tonic: The tonic is the first scale degree of a key and serves as the home base for all harmonic movement.

Subdominant:

The subdominant is the fourth scale degree, which often leads to the dominant, creating a progression that enhances harmonic tension.

Dominant Seventh Chord: A dominant seventh chord includes a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh, creating a strong desire to resolve to the tonic.