key term - V chord

Definition

The V chord, also known as the dominant chord, is built on the fifth scale degree of a key and typically consists of the root, major third, and perfect fifth. It plays a crucial role in establishing tonal relationships, leading to the tonic chord (I) and creating a sense of resolution. This chord can also function in secondary dominants and leading tone chords to temporarily tonicize other chords within a progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The V chord is crucial for establishing tension that seeks resolution to the tonic chord (I).
2. In major keys, the V chord is typically a major triad, while in minor keys, it can be altered to create a V7 chord by raising the seventh scale degree.
3. Secondary dominants are used to temporarily emphasize other chords by treating them as if they were the tonic of their own key.
4. When used in harmonic progressions, the V7 chord often resolves to the I chord, creating a strong sense of closure.
5. Tonicization using secondary leading tone chords involves using diminished chords built on the seventh scale degree of the target tonicized chord.

Review Questions

• How does the V chord create tension in a harmonic progression, and what is its primary function?
  • The V chord creates tension in a harmonic progression by establishing expectations for resolution to the tonic chord (I). This tension arises from its position as the dominant of the key and its structure, which includes a major third that enhances its stability. When it resolves to the I chord, this movement provides a satisfying sense of closure that reinforces the tonal center.
• Discuss how secondary dominants utilize the V chord to achieve tonicization of other chords within a progression.
  • Secondary dominants use the V chord to temporarily tonicize other chords by functioning as their dominant. For instance, in a progression like C major, D7 can act as the V7 of G major, leading smoothly to G. This creates a brief emphasis on G as if it were the tonic, expanding harmonic possibilities and adding color to the progression.
• Evaluate how leading tone chords relate to the function of V chords in both primary and secondary contexts.
  • Leading tone chords closely relate to V chords through their shared goal of creating strong resolutions. While V chords lead directly to tonics by establishing tension, leading tone chords serve similar purposes but focus on chords that aren't necessarily the home base. In secondary contexts, leading tone chords often facilitate smooth transitions into temporary tonics by reinforcing their dominant status, enriching harmonic complexity and adding depth to musical phrases.

Related terms

Tonic Chord:

The I chord, built on the first scale degree, serves as the home base or point of resolution in tonal music.

Dominant Seventh Chord:

A V7 chord that adds a minor seventh to the V chord, intensifying its tension and desire to resolve to the tonic.

Secondary Dominant: A chord that functions as the dominant for a chord other than the tonic, used to create temporary tonicizations within a progression.