key term - V7 chord

Definition

A V7 chord, or dominant seventh chord, is a four-note chord that consists of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. This chord plays a crucial role in tonal music by creating tension that typically resolves to the tonic chord, helping to establish a sense of harmonic direction. Its function is often enhanced by surrounding predominant chords such as IV or ii, leading to effective voice leading strategies and varied inversions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The V7 chord is built on the fifth scale degree and consists of the root (V), major third (R), perfect fifth (P), and minor seventh (b7).
2. When used in progressions, the V7 chord typically resolves down a perfect fifth or up a perfect fourth to the tonic chord.
3. Inversions of the V7 chord can create smoother voice leading by allowing common tones to remain while changing other voices.
4. The V7 chord can be approached from various predominant chords like IV or ii, enhancing its function and impact within a phrase.
5. In classical music, the V7 chord is often part of cadences, especially authentic cadences, which strongly signal the end of phrases.

Review Questions

• How does the V7 chord function within a harmonic progression when used with predominant chords?
  • The V7 chord acts as a powerful tension builder within harmonic progressions. When paired with predominant chords such as IV or ii, it creates an effective setup that leads smoothly into the tonic. These predominant chords establish a context where the tension created by the V7 can effectively resolve to the tonic, providing a satisfying sense of closure in the music.
• Discuss the importance of voice leading when using V7 chords in various inversions.
  • Voice leading is essential when incorporating V7 chords in inversions because it ensures smooth transitions between chords. By utilizing different inversions of the V7 chord, composers can maintain common tones while moving other voices more efficiently. This approach not only enhances harmonic flow but also enriches the overall texture of the music, making it more engaging for listeners.
• Evaluate how the use of V7 chords contributes to establishing tonal centers and resolving musical phrases.
  • The use of V7 chords is fundamental in establishing tonal centers and resolving musical phrases. By generating strong tension that typically resolves to the tonic (I) chord, V7 chords help define key areas and provide closure. This dynamic movement between tension and resolution allows composers to create emotional impact and articulate clear musical ideas. The frequent use of cadences involving V7 chords reinforces this function by marking significant structural points within compositions.

Related terms

Dominant Function:

The role of the V7 chord in harmony, which creates tension that resolves to the tonic (I) chord, establishing key and stability.

Seventh Chord Inversion: The rearrangement of the notes in a seventh chord, allowing different bass notes and voicings to create smoother transitions in voice leading.

Cadence:

A melodic or harmonic configuration that creates a sense of resolution or pause, often involving the V7 chord leading to the I chord.