Key Harmonic Functions to Know for Harmonic Analysis

Key harmonic functions are essential in music, shaping how we experience tension and resolution. They include tonic, dominant, and subdominant roles, guiding the listener through a piece while creating emotional depth and a sense of direction in harmonic progressions.

1. Tonic function

   • Serves as the home base or tonal center of a piece, typically represented by the I chord.
   • Establishes the key and provides a sense of resolution and stability.
   • Often the starting and ending point of musical phrases, reinforcing the key's identity.

2. Dominant function

   • Typically represented by the V chord, it creates tension that seeks resolution back to the tonic.
   • Plays a crucial role in establishing harmonic progression and forward motion.
   • Often includes the leading tone, which heightens the pull towards the tonic.

3. Subdominant function

   • Represented by the IV chord, it serves as a preparatory step leading to the dominant.
   • Provides contrast to the tonic and dominant, enriching the harmonic palette.
   • Often used to create a sense of departure from the tonic before moving to the dominant.

4. Pre-dominant function

   • Encompasses chords that lead into the dominant, such as ii and IV.
   • Sets up the harmonic progression, creating anticipation for the dominant function.
   • Helps to establish a smooth transition between the tonic and dominant.

5. Cadential function

   • Refers to the harmonic progressions that signal the end of a phrase or section, often involving V-I.
   • Creates a sense of closure and resolution, reinforcing the tonic.
   • Can include various cadences, such as perfect, plagal, and deceptive cadences.

6. Prolongation function

   • Involves extending a harmony or chord beyond its typical duration, often through embellishments.
   • Helps to maintain interest and tension within a harmonic framework.
   • Can involve techniques like passing chords or neighbor tones to enrich the harmonic texture.

7. Modulation function

   • Refers to the process of changing from one key to another within a piece.
   • Expands the harmonic landscape and introduces new tonal areas, enhancing musical variety.
   • Can be executed through pivot chords, direct modulation, or sequential patterns.

8. Secondary dominant function

   • Involves the use of a dominant chord that resolves to a chord other than the tonic, often labeled V/V or V/ii.
   • Adds tension and color by temporarily tonicizing a chord other than the primary tonic.
   • Enhances harmonic interest and complexity within a progression.

9. Deceptive function

   • Occurs when a dominant chord resolves to a chord other than the expected tonic, typically vi.
   • Creates surprise and emotional depth by defying listener expectations.
   • Often used to prolong the harmonic journey before finally resolving to the tonic.

10. Pedal point function

    • Involves a sustained or repeated note (usually in the bass) while harmonies change above it.
    • Creates a sense of tension and stability simultaneously, anchoring the harmonic movement.
    • Often used to build anticipation before a resolution or significant harmonic change.