Dominant (music)
In music theory, the dominant is the fifth scale degree and the chord built on it, creating a strong pull toward the tonic. It is a fundamental harmonic function that shapes tension and resolution in tonal music.
Music Theory
Explore Music Theory with clear music dictionary guides to notes, scales, chords, rhythm, harmony, melody, and musical structure.
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Ionian mode
The Ionian mode is the diatonic scale that corresponds to the modern major scale, built on a sequence of whole and half steps (W‑W‑H‑W‑W‑W‑H). It serves as the first mode of the seven traditional church modes and is foundational in Western tonal music.
Major third
A major third is a musical interval spanning four semitones, defined by a frequency ratio of 5:4 in just intonation and 400 cents in equal temperament. It forms the upper structure of major chords and is a cornerstone of Western tonal harmony.
Dominant Seventh Chord
A dominant seventh chord is a four‑note harmony built on the fifth degree of a scale, consisting of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. It creates strong tension that typically resolves to the tonic chord.
Cadence (music)
A cadence is a harmonic or melodic ending that signals closure, pause, or continuation in a piece of music. It is a core concept in Western tonal theory, shaping the direction and emotional impact of phrases and sections.
Minor third (musical interval)
A minor third is a musical interval spanning three letter names and three semitones. It is one of the most common intervals in Western music, forming the basis of minor chords and scales.
Subdominant (music)
In tonal music, the subdominant is the chord built on the fourth scale degree, serving as a primary harmonic function that prepares the move toward the dominant or returns to the tonic.
Arpeggio
An arpeggio is a musical figure in which the notes of a chord are played in succession rather than simultaneously. It is a fundamental technique across many styles, from classical to jazz, and appears in both melodic and harmonic contexts.
Key (music)
In music, a key designates a group of pitches, chords, and related harmonic relationships centered on a tonic note. It provides the tonal framework for a piece, influencing its mood, structure, and melodic direction.
Pentatonic Scale
The pentatonic scale is a five-note musical scale found in many world traditions. It exists in major and minor forms and serves as a fundamental building block in folk, blues, rock, and classical music.