What are the main functions in functional harmony?

Tonic chords create stability, predominant chords move away from tonic and prepare tension, and dominant chords create the strongest pull back toward tonic.

How do I analyze the function of a chord progression?

Choose the key, enter the chord symbols in order, and compare each root with its scale degree. Then listen for stability, preparation, tension, and resolution across the complete progression.

Does the analyzer recognize secondary dominants?

Yes. A dominant seventh chord that resolves down a fifth to the following chord is labeled as an applied dominant, such as V of ii or V of V.

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Experimental

Functional Harmony Chart & Analyzer

Enter a progression to label Tonic (T), Subdominant (S), Pre-dominant (PD), and Dominant (D) function. Hear the complete harmonic path, spot secondary dominants and deceptive resolutions, then share the exact analysis.

Key Root

Mode

Progression

Tempo BPM

Tonic (T) Subdominant (S) Pre-dominant Dominant (D)

Functional Labels

Click any chord card to visualize and play it with the shared piano helper.

Tension Curve

Higher values indicate stronger forward harmonic pressure.

Functional Harmony Chart

The diatonic chords in C major, grouped by their most common harmonic role. Click any chord to hear it and see its notes.

Degree	Chord	Function	Typical motion

How to Read Functional Harmony

Function describes what a chord is doing in context—not just which notes it contains.

1. Tonic means stability

I, iii, and vi commonly feel settled or closely related to home. A progression can begin, pause, or resolve on tonic-function harmony.

2. Predominant prepares tension

ii and IV move away from home and prepare dominant harmony. This tool keeps IV marked as subdominant so you can compare the two labels.

3. Dominant wants resolution

V and vii° contain strong tendency tones that pull toward tonic. A V chord resolving to vi creates a deceptive cadence instead.