What does the term "dominant" refer to in music theory?

The term "dominant" in music theory specifically refers to the fifth degree of a scale, whether it is a major or minor scale. This tone plays a vital role in establishing the harmonic foundation of a piece and is typically the note that creates tension, leading to a resolution. The dominant chord, built on this fifth scale degree, is crucial in Western music, as it generates a sense of movement and anticipation that is often resolved by returning to the tonic, or first tone, of the scale. Understanding the dominant's function helps in analyzing chord progressions, as it frequently appears in cadences and is integral to the structure of tonal harmony.

In contrast, the first tone of a scale refers to the tonic, which is the home note around which the scale is centered. The choices regarding musical genre or vocal warm-up techniques do not relate to the term "dominant" within the context of music theory, making them irrelevant to this specific definition.