Lesson Scale Degree Theory
Degree iii — m7 (Mediant)
Between tonic and dominant
Prove it — just do the practice exercise.
Em7 Shell Voicing
- E
- R
- G
- ♭3
- D
- ♭7
The iii degree sits between tonic and dominant:
• In C major: Em7
• Function: Weak tonic substitute
• Often starts extended turnarounds: iii – vi – ii – V
Roman numeral: iii (lowercase = minor)
The iii is rarely used as a standalone chord, but is important in sequences.
• In C major: Em7
• Function: Weak tonic substitute
• Often starts extended turnarounds: iii – vi – ii – V
Roman numeral: iii (lowercase = minor)
The iii is rarely used as a standalone chord, but is important in sequences.