Ii-v-i

Definition

The ii-v-i progression is a common sequence of chords in music, particularly in jazz and classical styles, where the ii chord (supertonic) leads to the v chord (dominant), resolving to the i chord (tonic). This progression creates a strong sense of movement and resolution, establishing a harmonic foundation that is foundational to many musical compositions. The relationship between these chords enhances tonal clarity and provides a pathway for melodies to unfold.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the key of C major, the ii chord is D minor (Dm), the v chord is G major (G), and the i chord is C major (C).
2. This progression often appears in jazz standards, making it essential for improvisation and composition within that genre.
3. The ii-v-i progression can be extended with additional chords for more complex sounds, such as adding seventh or ninth chords.
4. It's a staple in classical music as well, where composers frequently use it to create tension and resolution.
5. Understanding ii-v-i progressions helps musicians navigate changes in key and structure, making it easier to write coherent and engaging music.

Review Questions

• How does the ii-v-i progression function to create musical tension and resolution?
  • The ii-v-i progression creates musical tension through the movement from the ii chord to the v chord. The ii chord introduces a sense of anticipation while the v chord heightens this tension further, preparing for a resolution. When moving to the i chord, there’s a satisfying release of this built-up tension, establishing a feeling of home or resolution in the music. This dynamic between tension and release is fundamental to many musical forms.
• Discuss how variations of the ii-v-i progression can influence improvisation in jazz music.
  • Variations of the ii-v-i progression can greatly influence improvisation by providing musicians with different harmonic frameworks to explore. For example, jazz musicians often incorporate altered chords or extensions like 7ths, 9ths, or 13ths within this progression. By varying these chords or their order, improvisers can create unique melodic lines that maintain interest while still adhering to traditional harmonic conventions. This flexibility allows for greater creative expression while still remaining rooted in familiar structures.
• Evaluate the significance of mastering the ii-v-i progression for songwriters in various genres beyond jazz.
  • Mastering the ii-v-i progression is significant for songwriters across various genres because it provides a strong foundation for creating engaging harmonic structures. Understanding this progression allows songwriters to manipulate tension and resolution effectively, enhancing emotional impact in their compositions. It opens up possibilities for incorporating jazz influences into pop, rock, or even classical music, thus broadening their creative palette. Additionally, it can serve as a bridge between different musical styles, enabling artists to fuse elements from various genres into their work.

Related terms

Chord Function: The role that each chord plays within a key, such as tonic (i), dominant (v), or subdominant (ii), contributing to the overall harmonic structure.

Tonicization: The process of temporarily emphasizing a chord other than the tonic, often achieved through a ii-v progression that leads into a new key area.

Circle of Fifths:

A visual representation of the relationships between the twelve tones of the chromatic scale, their corresponding major and minor keys, and how they relate to chord progressions like ii-v-i.