MusicianCV · TR

Supertonic preparation

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Degrees and function

Supertonic preparation · Dm → G → C → ii → V → I

Play the bass line before adding the chords. Read Roman numerals relative to the current centre. In an applied-function label the target appears after the slash.

Example

Progression / function or voice movement · Dm → G → C / ii → V → I

Progression / function or voice movement

Dm → G → C ii → V → I

Try it

Does the last chord sound conclusive or invite continuation?

AnswerListen separately to the bass destination and the final upper note. Changing the upper voice can alter closure over the same chord progression.

Related topics

Temporary tonicization with a secondary dominant

References

Music Theory for the 21st-Century Classroom · Further reading

Subject-expert review pending.