Ii-v-i

Definition

The ii-v-i progression is a common chord sequence in music that moves from the supertonic (ii) chord to the dominant (v) chord and resolves to the tonic (i) chord. This progression is foundational in jazz and popular music, creating a strong sense of movement and resolution, and is closely tied to the concepts of chord progressions, diatonic harmony, and harmonic structure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ii-v-i progression is particularly effective in establishing tonal centers and creating tension and release within a musical phrase.
2. In the key of C major, the ii chord is D minor (D-F-A), the v chord is G major (G-B-D), and the i chord is C major (C-E-G).
3. This progression can be found in various styles of music, including jazz standards, classical compositions, and popular songs.
4. Musicians often use substitutions and variations of the ii-v-i to create different harmonic textures, such as using a ii7 or V7 chord for added color.
5. The ii-v-i progression serves as a critical building block for more complex harmonic ideas, allowing composers to explore different key changes and modulations.

Review Questions

• How does the ii-v-i progression demonstrate the concept of tension and resolution in music?
  • The ii-v-i progression illustrates tension and resolution by establishing a musical journey from the supertonic (ii) to the dominant (v) before resolving to the tonic (i). The ii chord introduces a mild tension as it moves away from the tonic. The v chord increases this tension significantly due to its leading tone that wants to resolve back to the tonic. Finally, resolving to the i chord provides a sense of closure, making this progression essential for creating emotional impact in musical phrases.
• Discuss how diatonic harmony relates to the ii-v-i progression and its role in various musical styles.
  • Diatonic harmony provides the framework for the ii-v-i progression by ensuring that each chord consists of notes derived from the same scale. This creates smooth transitions between chords and maintains a cohesive sound. In styles like jazz, this progression is frequently used to establish key centers while allowing musicians to explore complex improvisations over these harmonies. In popular music, the simplicity and familiarity of the ii-v-i help evoke emotional responses from listeners while still enabling creative variations.
• Evaluate the significance of substitutions in the ii-v-i progression and how they enhance musical composition.
  • Substitutions in the ii-v-i progression significantly enhance musical composition by adding harmonic richness and complexity. For instance, substituting a ii7 for a simple minor ii chord or incorporating altered dominant chords can create unexpected colors and tensions that engage listeners. These substitutions allow composers and improvisers to explore different emotional landscapes within their pieces while still adhering to the foundational movement provided by the ii-v-i framework. The flexibility afforded by these substitutions makes them invaluable in both jazz improvisation and contemporary songwriting.

Related terms

Diatonic chords: Chords that are built using only the notes from a given scale, maintaining the relationships defined by that scale.

Tonic: The first note or chord of a scale that serves as the home base or resolution point in a musical piece.

Chord progression: A sequence of chords played in a piece of music that creates a specific harmonic foundation and structure.