Submediant

Definition

The submediant is the sixth scale degree of a diatonic scale, serving as a pivotal point in harmonic progression and modulation. It creates interesting relationships within harmony, often being used as a minor chord in the context of major scales. This term connects deeply with primary and secondary triads, as the submediant triad can act as a secondary chord, enriching harmonic textures and facilitating smooth transitions in modulation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a major key, the submediant is represented by the sixth scale degree and is typically associated with the minor triad built on that degree.
2. The submediant can function as a pivot chord in diatonic modulation, allowing composers to transition smoothly between keys.
3. In music analysis, the submediant triad can provide contrast when placed alongside the tonic or dominant chords, enhancing harmonic interest.
4. The submediant relationship can also be observed in parallel minor scales, where it serves as a key player in modal interchange.
5. When analyzing chord progressions, recognizing the submediant's role can reveal deeper insights into a piece's structure and emotional depth.

Review Questions

• How does the submediant function within primary and secondary triads in a harmonic progression?
  • The submediant plays a crucial role in both primary and secondary triads by providing an alternative tonal color that contrasts with the tonic and dominant chords. In a major key, the submediant triad (built on the sixth scale degree) is often a minor chord that complements the overall harmonic palette. It can also act as a secondary triad leading to other chords, enriching the harmonic structure and offering varied resolution paths during progressions.
• Discuss how the submediant can facilitate diatonic modulation between keys.
  • The submediant serves as an effective pivot chord during diatonic modulation because of its inherent connection to both the original and target keys. For instance, when modulating from C major to A minor, the A minor triad (submediant) can be used to smoothly transition since A is the sixth degree of C major. This creates continuity in harmonic movement while allowing for new tonal exploration, making it easier for listeners to follow changes in key.
• Evaluate the emotional impact of using the submediant in harmonic progressions and its implications for musical expression.
  • Utilizing the submediant in harmonic progressions can evoke distinct emotional responses due to its unique positioning within diatonic scales. Its minor quality contrasts with more stable major chords like the tonic or dominant, introducing feelings of tension or introspection. By strategically placing submediant chords within a piece, composers can deepen emotional expression and provide listeners with unexpected shifts that add richness and complexity to musical narratives.

Related terms

Diatonic Scale: A seven-note scale consisting of five whole steps and two half steps, forming the foundation for Western music harmony.

Harmonic Function: The role a chord plays within a musical context, including its resolution tendencies and relationships to other chords.

Secondary Dominant: A dominant seventh chord that resolves to a chord other than the tonic, often leading to the dominant of the target chord.