Predominant Seventh Chords: A Full Explanation for AP Music Theory
If you’re studying AP Music Theory, you’ve likely encountered seventh chords—a four-note chord consisting of a triad plus a seventh. But how do predominant seventh chords function in harmony? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, including:
- What predominant seventh chords are
- Common types (ii⁷ and IV⁷)
- How they function in chord progressions
- Examples from classical and popular music
- Practice tips for mastering them
Let’s dive in!
What Are Predominant Seventh Chords?
Predominant seventh chords are four-note chords that create tension and lead to the dominant (V) chord in a progression. They typically appear in one of two forms:
- ii⁷ (minor seventh) – Built on the supertonic (2nd scale degree)
- IV⁷ (major seventh or dominant seventh) – Built on the subdominant (4th scale degree)
These chords prepare the dominant (V or V⁷) and add harmonic richness to progressions.
Types of Predominant Seventh Chords
1. ii⁷ (Minor Seventh Chord)
- Structure: Root, minor 3rd, perfect 5th, minor 7th (e.g., in C Major: D-F-A-C)
- Function: Softens the transition to V⁷, often used in classical and jazz progressions.
2. IV⁷ (Major Seventh or Dominant Seventh Chord)
- Structure:
- Major 7th: Root, major 3rd, perfect 5th, major 7th (e.g., F-A-C-E in C Major)
- Dominant 7th: Root, major 3rd, perfect 5th, minor 7th (e.g., F-A-C-E♭ in C Minor)
- Function: Adds a lush, expressive quality before resolving to V.
How Predominant Seventh Chords Function in Progressions
Predominant seventh chords bridge the gap between tonic (I) and dominant (V). A common progression is:
I → ii⁷ → V⁷ → I (Tonic → Predominant → Dominant → Tonic)
Example in C Major:
- I (C-E-G) → ii⁷ (D-F-A-C) → V⁷ (G-B-D-F) → I (C-E-G)
Why Use Seventh Chords?
- They create smoother voice leading (e.g., the 7th resolves down by step).
- They add harmonic color compared to simple triads.
- They intensify the pull toward the dominant.
Real Music Examples
1. Classical Music (ii⁷ Usage)
- Bach’s Chorales frequently use ii⁷ → V⁷ → I progressions.
- Mozart’s Piano Sonatas often feature IV⁷ as a predominant.
2. Jazz & Pop Music
- Jazz Standards (e.g., “Autumn Leaves”) use ii⁷-V⁷-I extensively.
- Pop Ballads (e.g., The Beatles’ “Yesterday”) incorporate IV⁷ for emotional depth.
Tips for Practicing Predominant Seventh Chords
- Write Progressions – Practice writing I-ii⁷-V⁷-I in different keys.
- Analyze Music – Identify predominant seventh chords in sheet music.
- Play at the Piano – Hear how they resolve to the dominant.
- Use Inversions – Experiment with first or second inversion for smoother voice leading.
Final Thoughts
Predominant seventh chords are essential for advanced harmony in AP Music Theory. By mastering ii⁷ and IV⁷, you’ll unlock richer chord progressions and a deeper understanding of tonal music.
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