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In music theory, the concept of secondary dominants is an essential tool for composers and songwriters looking to add depth and color to their chord progressions. Secondary dominants serve as a way to temporarily tonicize a chord other than the tonic, creating a sense of movement and excitement within a piece.
What are Secondary Dominants?
Secondary dominants are chords that act as the dominant (V) of a chord other than the tonic (I). In a major key, the secondary dominant is the V7 chord of the diatonic chord that is a fifth above the target chord. This creates a temporary resolution that enhances the harmonic progression.
Identifying Secondary Dominants
To identify secondary dominants in a key, follow these steps:
- Determine the key you are working in.
- Identify the diatonic chords in that key.
- Find the fifth scale degree of the chord you want to tonicize.
- Construct the dominant seventh chord from that fifth scale degree.
Example in C Major
In the key of C major, the diatonic chords are:
- C major (I)
- D minor (ii)
- E minor (iii)
- F major (IV)
- G major (V)
- A minor (vi)
- B diminished (vii°)
If we want to tonicize the D minor chord (ii), we look for the fifth scale degree of D, which is A. The secondary dominant would be A7 (V7 of ii). This can be used in a progression like:
- C – A7 – Dm
Using Secondary Dominants in Progressions
Incorporating secondary dominants into your chord progressions can create a richer harmonic texture. Here are some tips on how to effectively use them:
- Use secondary dominants to lead into a chord you want to emphasize.
- Experiment with different placements of secondary dominants within your progressions.
- Combine secondary dominants with other harmonic techniques, such as modal interchange.
Common Progressions with Secondary Dominants
Here are a few common chord progressions that utilize secondary dominants:
- C – A7 – Dm – G7 – C
- C – E7 – Am – D7 – G
- F – C7 – Fm – C – G7 – C
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While secondary dominants can add color, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls:
- Overusing secondary dominants can lead to confusion in your harmonic structure.
- Neglecting to resolve the secondary dominant properly can create a disjointed progression.
- Forgetting to consider the context of the secondary dominant within the overall piece.
Conclusion
Secondary dominants are a powerful tool for enhancing your music. By understanding how to identify and incorporate them into your chord progressions, you can create more dynamic and engaging compositions. Experiment with different secondary dominants and observe how they transform your music!