AP Music Theory Flashcards: Tonicization through Secondary Leading Tone 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.
Are there any inversion restrictions for secondary leading-tone *seventh* chords?
No, secondary leading-tone seventh chords (viio⁷/X) may appear in any inversion.
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Are there any inversion restrictions for secondary leading-tone *seventh* chords?
No, secondary leading-tone seventh chords (viio⁷/X) may appear in any inversion.
In what inversion must a secondary leading-tone *triad* appear?
A secondary leading-tone triad (viio/X) appears only in first inversion, notated as viio⁶/X.
What are the two common Roman numeral symbols for secondary leading-tone chords?
The symbols are viio/X for the triad and viio⁷/X for the seventh chord, where 'X' represents the chord being tonicized.
What is tonicization?
Tonicization is the process of making a chord other than the original tonic sound temporarily like the tonic. It can be identified in both performed and notated music.
What types of chords can be tonicized by a viio⁷/X chord?
Any major or minor triad can be tonicized by a secondary leading-tone chord.
What is the primary function of secondary leading-tone chords?
Secondary leading-tone chords, such as viio/X or viio⁷/X, are used to tonicize any major or minor triad within a key.
How can you identify tonicization in performed music?
In performed music, you can identify tonicization by hearing a temporary shift in the tonal center to a chord other than the original tonic.
What is the chord quality of a secondary leading-tone chord?
These chords are diminished triads or diminished seventh chords (which can be fully-diminished or half-diminished).
How is the root of a secondary leading-tone chord determined?
The root of a secondary leading-tone chord is the leading tone of the chord being tonicized.
What are the key features to look for when identifying a secondary leading-tone chord in notated music?
In notated music, look for a diminished triad or seventh chord whose root is the leading tone of the major or minor triad it resolves to.