AP Music Theory Flashcards: Part Writing of Secondary Dominant Chords
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What harmonic progression is suggested by a melodic pattern of ♯4 resolving to 5?
This melodic pattern suggests the tonicization of the dominant chord (V) through the use of its secondary dominant, V/V.
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What harmonic progression is suggested by a melodic pattern of ♯4 resolving to 5?
This melodic pattern suggests the tonicization of the dominant chord (V) through the use of its secondary dominant, V/V.
When adding a bass line to a soprano, what is the primary goal regarding harmonic procedures?
The goal is to compose a bass line that follows the normative harmonic procedures of 18th-century music, creating implied progressions that fit the given soprano.
What is a V/V chord?
A V/V (five of five) chord is a secondary dominant that functions as the dominant of the dominant chord in the prevailing key.
What is the function of chromatic pitches when composing a bass line for a given soprano?
Chromatic pitches often imply specific harmonic progressions, commonly suggesting the tonicization of a chord other than the main tonic via a secondary dominant.
What fundamental principle of voice-leading for dominant chords is crucial for part-writing secondary dominants?
The principle that the chordal seventh resolves down by step is a crucial voice-leading consideration that must be maintained for secondary dominants.
Do the standard voice-leading and doubling rules for dominant chords apply to secondary dominants?
Yes, all doubling and voice-leading considerations of normal dominant chords should be maintained when part-writing secondary dominants.
How can a composer signal a temporary shift away from the prevailing tonic?
A composer can use chromatic pitches to suggest the tonicization of a different chord, creating a temporary harmonic focus elsewhere.
In the context of part-writing, what does tonicization mean?
Tonicization is the process where a chord other than the prevailing tonic is temporarily treated as the tonic, often by being preceded by its secondary dominant.
How should the chordal seventh of a secondary dominant chord be resolved?
Just like a normal dominant chord, the chordal seventh of a secondary dominant must resolve down by step in the following chord.
If you see a ♯4 in a melody, what is its most likely tendency tone resolution?
The ♯4 is the leading tone to the dominant, and its most likely resolution is up by half step to scale degree 5.