Submediant Seventh

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Subdominant Seventh

Harmony Manual

Tonic Seventh

SUBMEDIANT SEVENTH
The submediant seventh is a min7 in major keys and a Maj7 in minor keys. In major it occurs in root position, first inversion, or third inversion. In minor it occurs in root position or first inversion. It is used primarily as an approach to Group 2 chords. Regular resolution of the submediant seventh chord occurs when the subdominant scale degree is doubled on the supersonic chord.

FIGURE 10.7. The Submediant Seventh
MEDIANT SEVENTH
The mediant seventh is a min7 in major keys and a Maj7 in minor keys. In major, it occurs in root position or first or third inversions. In minor, it occurs in root position or first inversion. It progresses to the submediant or subdominant chord. Descending root movement should be avoided. The III+ 7 in minor rarely occurs.

FIGURE 10.8. The Mediant Seventh
Occasionally the mediant seventh in minor will have a lowered seventh. This III is normally followed by iv. It may also be followed by VI.

FIGURE 10.9. The Mediant Seventh with Lowered Seventh