Subdominant
The fourth degree of a scale, forming a key harmonic pillar alongside the tonic and dominant.
Category
keys
Pronunciation
/sʌbˈdɒmɪnənt/
Origin
Latin (sub + dominans)
Length
198 words · 1 min read
About Subdominant
The subdominant sits a perfect fifth below the tonic (or a perfect fourth above) and provides the third essential harmonic function in tonal music, alongside tonic and dominant. The subdominant chord (IV) creates a sense of gentle departure from the tonic without the urgent tension of the dominant.
More keys terms
Chromatic
View all keysterms →Pertaining to notes outside the prevailing key or diatonic scale.
DiatonicPertaining to the seven notes of a major or natural minor scale without chromatic alteration.
ModulationThe process of changing from one key to another within a piece
Parallel KeyA major and minor key that share the same tonic note but have different key signatures, such as C major and C minor.
TonicThe first and most important note of a key, serving as the central point of rest and resolution.
Synonyms
Antonyms
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