Subdominant Function

Definition

The subdominant function refers to the role that the fourth scale degree plays in tonal harmony, typically acting as a preparation for the dominant chord. This function creates a sense of movement away from the tonic and leads towards tension that is resolved by the dominant chord, establishing a harmonic progression that is fundamental to Western music. The subdominant often appears in various forms, including major and minor chords, and serves to enhance musical phrases through its relationship with both the tonic and dominant chords.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The subdominant function is primarily represented by the IV chord in major keys and the iv chord in minor keys.
2. In a cadential 6/4 context, the subdominant often appears as a first inversion chord (specifically, as a 6/4 chord) that prepares for the dominant.
3. Subdominant chords can create a sense of departure from the tonic, leading to various musical developments or modulations.
4. The movement from subdominant to dominant chords creates an essential tension-resolution dynamic that is crucial for effective musical phrasing.
5. Subdominant function is important for establishing contrast in musical form, often marking transitions between sections or themes.

Review Questions

• How does the subdominant function contribute to harmonic progressions in tonal music?
  • The subdominant function contributes to harmonic progressions by creating a preparatory movement away from the tonic chord. This movement sets up the tension needed for the dominant chord, which ultimately resolves back to the tonic. By incorporating this function, composers can craft phrases that lead listeners through an emotional journey, enhancing the overall structure of a piece.
• Discuss how a cadential 6/4 chord utilizes subdominant function and its role in leading to resolution.
  • A cadential 6/4 chord uses the subdominant function by presenting a first inversion IV chord that acts as a transition point leading to the dominant. This specific chord creates a sense of anticipation and prepares the listener for the subsequent arrival of the V chord. The movement from this cadential 6/4 directly into the dominant is essential for establishing strong cadences that resolve tension back to the tonic.
• Evaluate how understanding subdominant function enhances your interpretation of musical compositions across different styles.
  • Understanding subdominant function allows for deeper analysis and interpretation of musical compositions by revealing how composers utilize harmonic progressions to create emotional impact. By recognizing how subdominant chords prepare for dominants and resolve back to tonics, you can better appreciate structural elements in various styles. This knowledge also equips you to identify thematic developments, transitions, and contrasts within pieces, enriching your overall listening experience.

Related terms

Tonic:

The first scale degree and home chord of a key, serving as the central point of resolution in tonal music.

Dominant:

The fifth scale degree which creates tension that resolves back to the tonic, often represented by a major triad or a seventh chord.

Cadence:

A harmonic progression that concludes a phrase or section of music, often featuring movement from the dominant to tonic.