key term - Predominant Harmonies

Definition

Predominant harmonies are chords that create a sense of preparation for the tonic, typically functioning to lead into the dominant chord. These harmonies, specifically IV (the subdominant) and ii (the supertonic), serve as important transition points in a musical phrase, enriching the harmonic progression and providing a pathway towards resolution. Their role is crucial in establishing the tonal center and creating tension that is later resolved by the dominant and tonic chords.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Predominant harmonies help establish a strong sense of tonality by linking the tonic to the dominant, creating a compelling harmonic narrative.
2. In a typical progression, IV or ii chords will often precede the dominant V chord, forming a common sequence like ii-V-I or IV-V-I.
3. The use of predominant harmonies can add emotional depth to a musical phrase, as they introduce tension that seeks resolution.
4. When composing, varying the predominant harmonies used can create different textures and colors in music, contributing to the overall style.
5. Predominant harmonies can be used in both major and minor keys, although their function and sound may vary slightly depending on the key context.

Review Questions

• How do predominant harmonies prepare listeners for the tonic in a musical phrase?
  • Predominant harmonies such as IV and ii create a buildup of tension that naturally leads to the dominant chord. This tension prepares listeners for the resolution that follows when transitioning to the tonic. By establishing a clear path from predominant to dominant, these chords enhance the listener's anticipation and satisfaction when the tonic finally arrives.
• Compare and contrast the roles of IV and ii as predominant harmonies within a musical context.
  • Both IV and ii serve as predominant harmonies, but they offer different colors and emotional qualities. The IV chord tends to have a brighter sound, often associated with openness and stability. In contrast, the ii chord has a more introspective quality, leading to a greater sense of tension when it resolves to V. This contrast allows composers to choose between different emotional expressions while still maintaining functional harmony.
• Evaluate how varying predominant harmonies within compositions can affect overall musical expression and style.
  • Varying predominant harmonies can significantly influence the emotional landscape of a piece. For instance, using ii instead of IV may create a more nuanced or contemplative feeling leading up to the dominant. Composers leverage these choices to evoke specific reactions from listeners or to align with stylistic conventions of different genres. This flexibility helps shape unique musical identities while still adhering to functional harmony principles.

Related terms

Tonic:

The first scale degree of a key, serving as the home base or resolution point in tonal music.

Dominant:

The fifth scale degree, which creates tension that resolves to the tonic, often represented by the V chord.

Chord Progression:

A sequence of chords played in succession, forming the harmonic structure of a piece of music.