Definition of Tonic (music)
In music, "tonic" refers to the originating note or chord of a particular key.
Scales are based on their tonic pitch, or tonic note, which is why they begin and end with their tonic pitch. This is also why scales are named after their tonics: for instance, the tonic of the C major scale is the note C. In the movable do solfège system, the tonic note is sung as do.
"Tonic" may also refer to the tonic triad, which is a triad built on the tonic pitch, or more generally to a tonic chord of another quality. The tonic often functions as the tonal center or final resolution tone of tonal music, and is commonly the goal of the final cadence in tonal harmony.
Terms mentioned above
Related terms
Mediant
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Supertonic
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Dominant (music)
In music, the dominant is the fifth scale degree of the diatonic scale. It is called the…
Parallel key
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Cambiata
Cambiata, or nota cambiata (Italian for changed note), has a number of different and…
Subtonic
In music, the subtonic is the degree of a musical scale which is a whole step below the…
Bass note
In music theory, the bass note of a chord or sonority is the lowest note played or…
Mystic chord
In music, the mystic chord or Prometheus chord is a six-note synthetic chord and its…
Resolution (music)
Resolution in Western tonal music theory is the move of a note or chord from dissonance…
Questions people ask
Real questions from the Stack Exchange community – follow a link to read the discussion.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Tonic (music)?
In music, "tonic" refers to the originating note or chord of a particular key.