V/vi

Definition

In music theory, v/vi refers to the dominant chord (v) that resolves to the tonic chord of a minor scale, which is the submediant (vi) in a major key. This creates a secondary dominant relationship where the v chord is functioning as a dominant to the vi chord, establishing a brief modulation or tonicization of the vi in the context of a larger harmonic progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The v/vi chord typically appears in minor key contexts where it serves as a preparation for the vi chord, creating a smooth transition between harmonies.
2. In a C major scale, v/vi would be D minor (v) leading to E minor (vi), establishing the E minor chord as a temporary tonic.
3. Using v/vi adds color and depth to harmonic progressions, making them more engaging and dynamic.
4. Composers often use v/vi in various genres to create tension before resolving to the vi chord, which can evoke emotions like longing or surprise.
5. The use of secondary dominants like v/vi is common in classical and popular music styles, often appearing in cadences and as part of larger harmonic frameworks.

Review Questions

• How does the v/vi function within a harmonic progression, and what effect does it have on tonality?
  • The v/vi functions by introducing the dominant of the submediant (vi) within a harmonic progression. This creates tension as it leads away from the tonic towards the vi chord, momentarily treating it as a new tonal center. The effect is an engaging shift that can highlight emotional contrasts within a piece of music, giving it depth and richness.
• Discuss how composers can utilize the v/vi chord in their works to enhance musical narratives.
  • Composers can utilize the v/vi chord to create dramatic shifts in their musical narratives. By employing this secondary dominant, they set up expectations for resolution that can lead to surprising or satisfying outcomes. This technique allows for emotional storytelling through music, as moments of tension generated by v/vi can resolve into more stable harmonies like vi, reinforcing character arcs or thematic developments.
• Evaluate the role of v/vi in contemporary music composition and its impact on listener perception.
  • In contemporary music composition, v/vi plays a crucial role by introducing unexpected harmonic progressions that can intrigue listeners. Its ability to create brief tonicizations enhances emotional depth and complexity, making songs more relatable and memorable. As audiences have become accustomed to traditional tonalities, the use of v/vi allows composers to push boundaries while still providing familiar resolutions, thus enriching the overall listening experience.

Related terms

Secondary Dominant: A secondary dominant is a chord that acts as the dominant for a chord other than the tonic, creating tension and leading to a temporary resolution.

Tonicization: Tonicization is the process of temporarily making a non-tonic chord feel like the tonic through the use of its own dominant.

Harmonic Function: Harmonic function refers to the role that chords play within a progression, such as tonic, predominant, or dominant, influencing how they lead into one another.