About Secondary Dominants
A secondary dominant (also called an applied dominant) is a dominant seventh chord that temporarily tonicizes a chord other than the tonic. Written as "V7/x," it's the V7 of whatever chord follows. For example, V7/V in C major is D7, which resolves to G (the V chord). This technique adds chromatic color and forward motion to progressions.
Who Is This For?
These flashcards are designed for music theory students learning chromatic harmony, jazz musicians analyzing standards, and composers wanting to expand their harmonic palette. Understanding secondary dominants is essential for analyzing music from the common practice period through contemporary jazz.
How to Practice
Start by identifying the target chord (the Roman numeral after the slash), then build a dominant seventh chord with that chord's root as its fifth scale degree. V7/V targets the V chord, so find V in the key, go up a fifth from that root, and build a dominant seventh. Practice until you can identify any secondary dominant instantly.
Common Challenges
Students often struggle with secondary dominants to minor chords. Remember: V7/vi in C major targets A minor, so the secondary dominant is E7 (with G-sharp). Also watch for V7/IV, which doesn't alter any notes in major keys—C7 going to F in the key of C.