Submediant

Definition

The submediant is the sixth scale degree of a diatonic scale, often represented as 'vi' in Roman numeral analysis. It plays a significant role in harmony, typically serving as a tonic alternative or a pivot point in chord progressions. This degree is particularly important when analyzing cadences, as it can create unexpected resolutions and enrich harmonic movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The submediant chord is typically a minor chord when built on the sixth scale degree in a major key, contributing to its distinct sound.
2. In functional harmony, the submediant can often be used to substitute for the tonic, offering smoother transitions within progressions.
3. The relationship between the submediant and the tonic is known as a mediant relationship, enhancing the emotional depth of musical phrases.
4. When resolving cadences, moving from the submediant to the dominant can create a strong sense of motion towards resolution.
5. In many pop and classical compositions, the submediant chord appears frequently, highlighting its versatility and importance in various genres.

Review Questions

• How does the submediant function within common chord progressions?
  • The submediant serves as an important pivot point in many chord progressions. It can act as a substitute for the tonic, allowing for smooth transitions between chords. For example, moving from the submediant to the dominant creates tension that naturally leads back to the tonic. This unique function adds variety and richness to harmonic movement.
• In what ways does the use of the submediant contribute to emotional expression in music?
  • The submediant contributes to emotional expression by providing an alternative resolution that differs from traditional tonic-dominant movements. Its minor quality in a major key evokes a sense of longing or introspection. When composers incorporate submediants in their works, they enhance the emotional depth by creating contrast and unexpected turns within progressions.
• Evaluate how the interplay between the submediant and other scale degrees shapes harmonic structure in contemporary music.
  • The interplay between the submediant and other scale degrees shapes harmonic structure significantly in contemporary music. The ability of the submediant to substitute for the tonic allows songwriters to break away from predictable patterns, resulting in unique soundscapes. This relationship enhances creativity by allowing composers to explore different emotional landscapes, which can lead to innovative musical expressions that resonate with listeners on various levels.

Related terms

Tonic: The first scale degree of a diatonic scale, serving as the home base or primary chord in a key.

Dominant:

The fifth scale degree of a diatonic scale, often leading to the tonic and creating tension that resolves in cadences.

Chord Progression:

A sequence of chords played in succession, which forms the harmonic backbone of a piece of music.