Supertonic (Noun)
Meaning
(music) the second note of a diatonic scale.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The supertonic chord is often used as a passing chord to add tension to a progression.
- In the key of C major, the note D is the supertonic of the scale.
- The composer used the supertonic as a melodic motif throughout the piece.
- The chord built on the supertonic can create a sense of uncertainty in a musical phrase.
- The musician emphasized the supertonic in her improvisation to add emotional depth to the solo.