SUPERTONIC Meaning and
Definition
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The term "supertonic" refers to a musical note or chord that exists above the tonic note in a given key or scale. In music theory, the tonic is the first degree or note of a scale, often considered the "home" or resting point. The supertonic, therefore, represents the second degree of the scale, located one whole step (two semitones) above the tonic.
The supertonic plays a significant role in Western classical music, as it is commonly used to establish tension and create harmonic movement. When a composition or melody incorporates the supertonic, it introduces a sense of anticipation or expectation, as it lends itself to resolutions that usually lead back to the tonic note. This transition from supertonic to tonic can evoke feelings of resolution and stability within a musical piece.
In terms of chord progressions, the supertonic chord often accompanies the supertonic note. For instance, in the key of C major, the supertonic chord would be D minor. Furthermore, the supertonic chord can also serve as a secondary dominant chord in some cases, leading to the dominant or other related chords.
To summarize, the concept of the supertonic relates to the musical note or chord that is one whole step above the tonic. By establishing tension and contributing to harmonic movement, the supertonic is a crucial element in creating expressive and dynamic pieces of music.
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In music, the note next above the key-note.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SUPERTONIC
- aupertonic
- zupertonic
- xupertonic
- dupertonic
- eupertonic
- wupertonic
- sypertonic
- shpertonic
- sjpertonic
- sipertonic
- s8pertonic
- s7pertonic
- suoertonic
- sulertonic
- su-ertonic
- su0ertonic
- supwrtonic
- supsrtonic
- supdrtonic
Etymology of SUPERTONIC
The word "supertonic" is derived from a combination of the Latin prefix "super" meaning "above" or "beyond", and the Latin word "tonus" meaning "tone" or "sound". In music theory, the supertonic refers to the second degree of a diatonic scale, which is one step above the tonic. The term was first used in this musical sense during the early 19th century in the field of Western classical music.
Similar spelling words for SUPERTONIC
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