key term - V/IV chord (secondary dominant of the subdominant)

Definition

The V/IV chord is the secondary dominant of the subdominant chord in a given key, meaning it functions as the dominant (V) chord leading to the IV chord. This chord allows for tonicization, where the IV chord temporarily feels like the tonal center, creating a sense of movement and tension that resolves nicely into the IV. By incorporating secondary dominants like V/IV, composers add harmonic interest and richness to their progressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The V/IV chord is typically built on the fifth scale degree of the subdominant chord and resolves to the IV chord.
2. In the key of C major, for example, the V/IV would be D major (D-F#-A), leading to the IV chord G major (G-B-D).
3. Using V/IV can create a surprise or lift in a progression, making it a popular choice in various musical styles.
4. Secondary dominants like V/IV can often be found in cadences, enhancing the feeling of closure when resolving to their target chords.
5. This chord is commonly used in modulation to establish new keys by tonicizing the subdominant before moving on.

Review Questions

• How does the V/IV chord facilitate tonicization within a musical progression?
  • The V/IV chord helps facilitate tonicization by temporarily shifting the listener's focus to the subdominant chord. By acting as the dominant for the IV chord, it creates a strong pull towards that resolution. This process makes the IV chord feel like a new tonal center, allowing composers to enhance harmonic interest and emotional impact in their music.
• What are some common ways composers utilize the V/IV chord in their compositions?
  • Composers often use the V/IV chord in various ways, such as incorporating it into cadences to create dramatic resolutions. They might also use it to transition smoothly between different sections of a piece or to introduce key changes. Additionally, V/IV can serve to heighten tension before resolving to the IV chord, making it an effective tool for building excitement in a musical phrase.
• Evaluate the impact of using V/IV chords on overall musical structure and listener experience.
  • Using V/IV chords can significantly impact musical structure and listener experience by adding depth and complexity to harmonic progressions. When employed thoughtfully, these chords create moments of surprise and release, enhancing emotional engagement with the music. Their ability to shift focus towards subdominant areas allows for richer storytelling within compositions and fosters dynamic contrasts that keep listeners invested throughout a piece.

Related terms

Tonicization:

The process of temporarily establishing a chord or key as the tonal center, often using secondary dominants to create a stronger resolution.

Secondary Dominant: A chord that acts as a dominant for a chord other than the tonic, providing a momentary emphasis on that chord.

Subdominant:

The fourth degree of a scale, typically represented by the IV chord, which plays a key role in many harmonic progressions.