Secondary dominants

Definition

Secondary dominants are chords that function as the dominant (V) of a diatonic chord other than the tonic in a key. They create tension and lead to a resolution on the target chord, enhancing harmonic interest and complexity within a progression. This technique is widely used to add color and motion in compositions, particularly in genres that prioritize rich harmonic textures.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Secondary dominants can be notated using Roman numeral analysis, often represented as V/ii, V/iii, etc., indicating the function of the dominant relative to the diatonic chord being targeted.
2. Using secondary dominants can lead to a modulation-like effect without actually changing the key, providing a fresh sound while remaining within the original harmonic context.
3. They can appear in various forms, including altered chords and chromatic mediants, which contribute further to their harmonic richness.
4. In electronic music composition, secondary dominants can be particularly effective for creating unexpected shifts and embellishing melodic lines.
5. The use of secondary dominants is common in various genres such as jazz, classical, and pop music, showcasing their versatility in enhancing musical expression.

Review Questions

• How do secondary dominants enhance the harmonic progression within a piece of music?
  • Secondary dominants enhance harmonic progression by introducing tension that resolves into non-tonic chords. This creates a sense of forward motion and adds depth to the overall harmony. By acting as temporary dominants for other diatonic chords, they encourage listeners to anticipate resolutions, enriching the listening experience.
• Discuss the relationship between secondary dominants and tonicization in musical composition.
  • Secondary dominants play a crucial role in tonicization by temporarily elevating non-tonic chords to a status similar to that of the tonic. This process allows composers to create more dynamic harmonic structures without fully modulating to another key. The presence of secondary dominants draws attention to these chords, allowing them to function effectively within larger progressions while maintaining their connection to the original key.
• Evaluate how secondary dominants can be effectively utilized in electronic music composition for creating tension and resolution.
  • In electronic music composition, secondary dominants can be leveraged to craft moments of tension and release that engage listeners more deeply. By layering synthesized sounds with secondary dominant chords, producers can create complex textures that build anticipation before resolving into more stable harmonies. This technique can be particularly powerful in genres that prioritize emotional impact, as it introduces unexpected turns while preserving thematic coherence throughout the piece.

Related terms

Diatonic Harmony: A system of harmony that strictly adheres to the notes and chords derived from a specific scale or key, typically employing seven chords that align with the scale degrees.

Chord Progression: A sequence of chords played in succession, which forms the harmonic backbone of a piece of music, guiding the listener through tension and resolution.

Tonicization: The process of temporarily treating a non-tonic chord as if it were a tonic, often achieved through the use of secondary dominants, thereby creating a stronger sense of resolution.