Chromatic predominants

Definition

Chromatic predominants are chords that create a strong sense of resolution by altering one or more tones to introduce chromaticism, typically leading to a dominant chord or the tonic in harmonic progressions. These chords often add tension and color, enriching the harmonic texture and providing a smooth transition between tonal areas. They allow composers to explore more complex relationships between chords by introducing notes that are outside the standard diatonic scale.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chromatic predominants can include borrowed chords from parallel modes, adding unexpected flavors to traditional progressions.
2. They typically appear in compositions to create tension before resolving to a tonic or dominant chord, enhancing the emotional impact.
3. These chords can be used strategically in modulation, facilitating smoother transitions between different keys.
4. Chromatic predominants often enhance voice leading by allowing smoother transitions between chords with common tones.
5. In many musical styles, chromatic predominants serve as a tool for composers to break free from conventional tonal boundaries and explore more adventurous harmonies.

Review Questions

• How do chromatic predominants function within harmonic progressions, and what is their role in creating tension?
  • Chromatic predominants function by introducing altered tones that create a sense of tension before resolving to either the dominant or tonic chord. This tension arises from the unexpected chromatic alterations which contrast with the diatonic harmony, drawing the listener's attention and heightening emotional engagement. By using these chords effectively, composers can manipulate harmonic expectations and enrich the overall musical narrative.
• Discuss how chromatic predominants can facilitate modulation between different keys within a piece of music.
  • Chromatic predominants can serve as pivotal points for modulation by introducing chords that suggest a shift in tonal center. By incorporating borrowed chords or altered tones, they provide a smooth transition from one key to another, making the modulation feel organic rather than abrupt. This technique allows composers to explore new harmonic landscapes while maintaining coherence within the overall structure of the piece.
• Evaluate the impact of chromatic predominants on voice leading and harmonic complexity in contemporary compositions.
  • Chromatic predominants significantly enhance voice leading by allowing for smoother connections between harmonies through shared tones and stepwise motion. This creates more fluid melodic lines while adding layers of harmonic complexity that challenge traditional tonal expectations. In contemporary compositions, their use not only enriches the textural quality but also invites listeners into a more dynamic exploration of harmony, pushing boundaries beyond classic tonal frameworks.

Related terms

Diatonic Harmony: A harmonic system that relies exclusively on the notes within a given key or scale, without the use of chromatic alterations.

Secondary Dominants: Chords that function as dominant chords for a chord other than the tonic, temporarily tonicizing that chord within the context of the original key.

Voice Leading: The smooth movement of individual melodic lines or voices from one chord to another, often employing techniques that enhance harmonic flow and connectivity.