leading note

British  

/ ˈliːdɪŋ /

noun

1. another word for subtonic

2. (esp in cadences) a note, usually the subtonic of a scale, that tends most naturally to resolve to the note lying one semitone above it

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Example Sentences

But Gaga goes down, leaving that “bad” leading note hanging.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2014

It is in a curious minor mode, almost F minor, but wanting the leading note, which is replaced by E flat.

From Jamaican Song and Story Annancy stories, digging sings, ring tunes, and dancing tunes by Jekyll, Walter

Not fear but surprise was the leading note on his features.

From Recalled to Life by Allen, Grant

Not infrequently the theme ends on the leading note or supertonic which strikes the ear with a perpetual surprise, the cadence leading one to anticipate a repetition rather than a conclusion of the air.

From Stories and Ballads of the Far Past Translated from the Norse (Icelandic and Faroese) with Introductions and Notes by Kershaw, Nora

Nothing will stay them, the seasons go onward,     Lightly the bright months fly out of my hand, Softly the leading note calls a new octave;     Autumn is coming and what have I done?

From Poems by Shanks, Edward