Primary Triads

Definition

Primary triads are the three fundamental chords built on the first (tonic), fourth (subdominant), and fifth (dominant) degrees of a scale. These triads form the harmonic foundation for most tonal music, establishing a sense of home and tension that composers exploit to create musical phrases and progressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Primary triads are labeled using Roman numerals: I (tonic), IV (subdominant), and V (dominant) in major keys.
2. In minor keys, the primary triads are i (tonic), iv (subdominant), and V (dominant), where V may be altered to V7 for added tension.
3. These triads create a strong sense of resolution when moving from V to I, forming the basis for many common chord progressions.
4. Primary triads are essential for establishing key relationships and serve as a reference point for secondary chords.
5. They often appear in various inversions, allowing composers to explore different voicings while maintaining harmonic function.

Review Questions

• How do primary triads contribute to creating tension and resolution in tonal music?
  • Primary triads play a critical role in establishing tension and resolution within tonal music through their functional relationships. The dominant triad (V) creates tension that seeks resolution to the tonic triad (I), creating a strong pull back to the home key. The subdominant triad (IV) acts as a bridge between the tonic and dominant, adding contrast and depth to musical progressions. This interplay among primary triads forms the backbone of many harmonic structures.
• Compare the role of primary triads in major keys versus minor keys, particularly focusing on their functions and alterations.
  • In major keys, primary triads are formed by the I, IV, and V chords, which naturally align with the diatonic scale. In contrast, in minor keys, the primary triads include i, iv, and V, where the V chord is often altered to V7 to create additional tension. This alteration is crucial for resolving back to the tonic chord. Despite these differences, both major and minor primary triads maintain their foundational roles in establishing key relationships and guiding harmonic progressions.
• Evaluate how understanding primary triads can enhance a composer's ability to create effective chord progressions and develop musical ideas.
  • Understanding primary triads allows composers to effectively use harmony as a means of communication in music. By knowing how these triads function within a key, composers can craft chord progressions that evoke specific emotions or drive musical narratives. For example, using a V-I progression creates a strong sense of resolution that can highlight important moments in a piece. Moreover, this knowledge enables composers to manipulate tension and release strategically, making their compositions more engaging and dynamic.

Related terms

Tonic: The tonic is the first note of a scale and serves as the home base or tonal center for a piece of music.

Subdominant: The subdominant is the fourth degree of a scale, providing contrast and movement away from the tonic.

Dominant: The dominant is the fifth degree of a scale, creating tension that often resolves back to the tonic, playing a crucial role in establishing harmonic progression.