Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) Practice Exam

In a standard 12-bar blues form, the chord in the ninth measure is what type of chord?

1. Tonic

2. Subdominant

3. Submediant

4. Dominant

The correct answer is: Dominant

In a standard 12-bar blues progression, the ninth measure typically features a dominant chord. This chord is essential in creating the characteristic tension and resolution found in blues music. In the context of a 12-bar blues, the progression usually follows a pattern of tonic (I), subdominant (IV), and dominant (V) chords. As the progression reaches the ninth measure, which is often within the last four bars of the form, it typically utilizes the V chord to build anticipation for the resolution back to the tonic chord in the final measure. This dominant chord is crucial as it establishes a sense of movement and desire for the music to resolve, which is a fundamental aspect of blues music. This use of the dominant chord helps to reinforce the overall emotional expressiveness of the blues, making it a vital part of the structure. The tension created by this chord leads directly to the harmonic resolution, which is an iconic characteristic of the genre.