Secondary chords are chords that function as the dominant (V) of a chord other than the tonic in a given key. They create temporary resolutions that lead to non-tonic chords, enhancing harmonic progression by adding interest and movement within a piece of music. Secondary chords allow composers to establish brief tonal centers, creating a richer texture in harmonic progressions.
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Secondary chords often take the form of secondary dominants, written as V/ii, V/iii, V/IV, etc., indicating their function relative to the target chord.
These chords can lead to smoother transitions between different sections of music, providing pathways for modulation or tonicization.
Secondary chords are commonly found in various musical genres, adding complexity to simple diatonic progressions.
The use of secondary chords can enhance emotional expression by creating tension and release in the music.
In classical harmony, secondary chords help create longer phrases by connecting non-tonic chords to the tonic through dominant functions.
Review Questions
How do secondary chords contribute to harmonic progression in music?
Secondary chords enrich harmonic progression by introducing temporary resolutions and leading to non-tonic chords. By acting as dominants of other scale degrees, they create pathways that make transitions smoother and more engaging. This allows composers to maintain listener interest and build tension before resolving back to the tonic.
Discuss the role of tonicization in relation to secondary chords and how it impacts musical composition.
Tonicization involves treating a non-tonic chord as if it were the tonic, which is often achieved through secondary chords. This technique allows composers to shift focus within a piece, creating a sense of movement and direction. The introduction of secondary dominants helps establish these temporary tonal centers, leading to more dynamic and varied compositions.
Evaluate how the use of secondary chords can affect emotional expression in a musical piece.
The use of secondary chords greatly influences emotional expression by generating tension that needs resolution. When a secondary dominant is introduced, it creates anticipation and heightens emotional impact, as listeners expect a resolution either back to the tonic or to another chord. This interplay between tension and release not only engages the listener but also allows composers to convey complex emotions through their music.
Related terms
Diatonic chords: Chords that are built from the notes of a specific scale, remaining within the key signature.
Tonicization: The process of temporarily emphasizing a chord other than the tonic as if it were the tonic, usually through the use of secondary dominants.
Modulation: The process of changing from one key to another within a piece of music, often creating contrast and development.