Function & Chord Relationships

Question 1

What is the diatonic function of the first scale degree and what does it mean?

Answer 1

Tonic.

Tonic is the tonal center and starting point of harmony in a key where to everything resolves in the end. It is also the reference point of all harmony in a piece.

Question 2

What is the diatonic function of the fifth scale degree and what does it mean?

Answer 2

Dominant.

Dominant chord creates instability that requires a tonic resolution.

Question 3

What is the diatonic function of the fourth scale degree and what does it mean?

Answer 3

Sub-dominant.

Sub-dominant is the dominant below the tonic. As a pre-dominant tends to lead the harmony away from the tonic and resolve to the dominant affirming its pull towards the tonic.