Due to this close relationship, a supertonic chord is often used as a substitute for the subdominant. Adding an additional interval of a third on top of the triad results in a “seventh chord:” D – F – A – C, which is commonly used in jazz music.

What is supertonic used for?

The Supertonic Triad is most used for moving between Triads with more weight or resolution (like the Tonic or Dominant). It works well as a substitute for the Subdominant and Subtonic Triads, sharing two notes in common.

What does the supertonic resolve to?

The supertonic chord normally functions as a predominant chord, a chord that naturally resolves to chord with dominant function. The supertonic chord lies a fifth above the V chord. Descending fifths are a strong basis for harmonic motion (see circle of fifths).