Tonic Prolongation

Definition

Tonic prolongation refers to extending or delaying resolution to the tonic chord, creating tension and anticipation within a musical composition.

Analogy

Imagine waiting for your favorite TV show's season finale. As each episode builds up suspense, prolonging resolution, you eagerly anticipate that satisfying conclusion. Similarly, tonic prolongation keeps listeners engaged by delaying their arrival at the expected resolution.

Related terms

Dominant Pedal Tone: A dominant pedal tone involves sustaining or repeating the dominant note while other harmonies change around it.

Neapolitan Chord: A Neapolitan chord is an altered version of the subdominant chord (built on bII) that adds unique color and tension before resolving to the dominant or tonic.

Deceptive Cadence: A deceptive cadence occurs when an expected authentic cadence (V-I) is replaced with an unexpected progression, often involving a deceptive move from V to vi instead.