Easy Piano Lesson 4: Dominant and Subdominant Chords242

Introduction

Welcome to Easy Piano Lesson 4! In this lesson, we'll explore dominant and subdominant chords, two essential building blocks of music.

Dominant Chords

Dominant chords are built on the fifth scale degree. They typically create a sense of tension and resolve to the tonic chord. The most common dominant chord is the V7 chord, which consists of the 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th notes of the major scale. For example, in the key of C, the dominant chord would be G7 (G, B, D, F).

Subdominant Chords

Subdominant chords are built on the fourth scale degree. They provide a contrast to the tonic chord and typically precede the dominant chord in cadences. The most common subdominant chord is the IV chord, which consists of the 1st, 4th, and 6th notes of the major scale. For example, in the key of C, the subdominant chord would be F (F, A, C).

Chord Progressions

Chords are rarely used in isolation. They are typically combined in chord progressions, which create a sense of movement and direction in music. One of the most common chord progressions is the I-IV-V-I progression, which starts with the tonic chord, moves to the subdominant chord, then to the dominant chord, and finally resolves back to the tonic.

Playing Dominant and Subdominant Chords on Piano

To play dominant and subdominant chords on the piano, follow these steps:
Locate the root note of the chord (5th degree for dominant, 4th degree for subdominant).
Play the root note with your left hand.
Play the third interval above the root with your right hand.
Play the fifth interval above the root with your right hand.
For dominant chords, play the seventh interval above the root with your right hand.

Practice Exercises

To reinforce your understanding of dominant and subdominant chords, try the following practice exercises:
Play the G7 (dominant) chord in the key of C.
Play the F (subdominant) chord in the key of C.
Play the I-IV-V-I chord progression in the key of G.

Conclusion

Dominant and subdominant chords are essential elements of music. By understanding these chords and their role in chord progressions, you can expand your musical vocabulary and enhance your piano playing skills.

2025-01-05

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