Understanding the Subdominant Chord in a Minor Scale
The subdominant chord, a fundamental concept in music theory, plays a significant role in minor scales. This article delves into the details of the subdominant chord in a minor scale, focusing on its definition, position, and characteristics.
Definition and Position of the Subdominant Chord
The subdominant chord is the fourth chord in the progression of a minor scale. To remember this, consider the mnemonic
"dominant is always the fifth, and sub is below the dominant." This makes it easy to recall that the subdominant is the fourth degree of the scale.
For example, in the A minor scale (A, B, C, D, E, F, G), the fourth note is D. This note retains the same position in the scale if we were to use the corresponding major scale (A major), making it a perfect fourth.
Subdominant Chord in Minor Scales
The subdominant of a minor scale is the same note as the subdominant in the related major scale. For any minor scale (C minor, D minor, E minor, etc.), the subdominant chord is formed using the fourth degree of the scale as the root.
For instance, in the C minor scale (C, D, E, F, G, A, B), the subdominant chord would be formed with F as the root, resulting in Fm7.
Harmonization and Chord Characteristics
Harmonizing a minor scale involves creating chords from each scale degree. The fourth degree naturally forms a subdominant chord. In a natural minor scale, the subdominant chord is a minor chord. For example, in A natural minor (A, B, C, D, E, F, G), the fourth is D, making the subdominant chord Dm7.
In melodic minor scales, the fourth degree can form a major chord. However, due to its rarity in practical music applications, you will seldom encounter this in typical repertoire.
It's also important to note that different minor scales (harmonic, melodic, etc.) harmonize differently diatonically. However, the focus here is on the natural minor scale, which is the most common and widely used in many musical contexts.
Conclusion
Understanding the subdominant chord in a minor scale helps musicians and composers grasp the fundamental structures of minor key harmonies. Whether you’re studying music theory or composing in a minor key, knowing the subdominant chord is essential.
By following the structure and understanding the role of the subdominant chord, you can enhance your knowledge of how minor scales function in music theory and practical applications.