Dominant Triads

Definition

Dominant triads are three-note chords built on the fifth scale degree of a key. They consist of the root, major third, and perfect fifth intervals.

Related terms

Tonic Triads: These are three-note chords built on the first scale degree of a key. They represent stability and resolution.

Subdominant Triads: These are three-note chords built on the fourth scale degree of a key. They provide a sense of departure from the tonic.

Inversion: This term refers to rearranging the order of notes within a chord so that a different note becomes the lowest pitch.