Definition

1. Noun:
   • The seventh note of the diatonic scale: In music theory, the "subtonic" is the scale degree that is one whole step below the tonic (the first and primary note of the scale). It is the seventh note in a major or natural minor scale.

Usage

• The term "subtonic" is used specifically in music theory and analysis to describe a note's function and position within a scale.
• It is often discussed in contrast to the "leading tone," which is the seventh note that is only a half step below the tonic, as found in harmonic minor or major scales.

Examples

• Noun:
  • In the C natural minor scale (C, D, E♭, F, G, A♭, B♭, C), the note B♭ is the subtonic.
  • The subtonic chord, built on the seventh scale degree, often has a dominant function but is less tense than the chord built on the leading tone.

Advanced Usage

• "Subtonic" vs. "Leading Tone": In a major scale, the seventh degree is a leading tone (e.g., B in C major). In a natural minor scale, the seventh degree is a subtonic (e.g., B♭ in C minor). The distinction is based on the interval between the seventh note and the tonic.
• Subtonic Function: The subtonic note and the chords built upon it (like the VII chord in a minor key) often create a sense of movement back to the tonic, though it is typically less direct or urgent than the pull of the leading tone.

Variants and Related Words

• Leading Tone (n): The seventh scale degree when it is a half step below the tonic, creating a strong pull toward resolution.
• Tonic (n): The first and central note of a scale, serving as the point of rest and resolution.
• Dominant (n): The fifth note of the diatonic scale, which has a strong tendency to resolve to the tonic.

Synonyms

• Seventh degree: A more general term for the seventh note of a scale.
• Note VII: Using Roman numeral analysis to denote the scale degree.

Related Terms and Concepts

• Diatonic Scale: A seven-note musical scale comprising five whole steps and two half steps in a specific pattern.
• Scale Degree: The position of a note within a scale, often assigned a number (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.) or a name (tonic, supertonic, mediant, etc.).

Noun

1. (music) the seventh note of the diatonic scale