Subtonic (Noun)
Meaning
(music) the seventh note of the diatonic scale.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The composer chose to end the melody on the subtonic to create a sense of tension and uncertainty.
- In jazz harmony, the subtonic chord is often used as a ii-V substitute to add color and interest.
- The guitarist played a subtle fill that outlined the subtonic of the key, adding depth to the chord progression.
- The singer's improvisation jumped from the tonic to the subtonic, creating a sense of drama and release.
- In this progression, the subtonic serves as a pivot chord, connecting the ii chord to the tonic in a surprising way.