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Music TheoryJazz Harmony: Beyond the Triad
Jazz Harmony: Beyond the Triad
Goal
Learn how to build 7th chords for that rich, professional jazz sound.
Adding the 7th
Jazz chords add a 4th note to the triad. This 4th note is the 7th degree of the scale.
| Chord Name | Formula | Notes (in C) |
|---|---|---|
| Major 7 | 1 - 3 - 5 - 7 | C - E - G - B |
| Dominant 7 | 1 - 3 - 5 - b7 | C - E - G - Bb |
| Minor 7 | 1 - b3 - 5 - b7 | C - Eb - G - Bb |
The "Dreamy" Major 7
Play C - E - G - B all together.
Notice how it sounds more "open" and less "finished" than a standard C Major.
Try playing it with your right hand while your left hand plays a low C.
Quick Recap
7th chords have 4 notes.
Major 7 = Dreamy, Dominant 7 = Bluesy, Minor 7 = Sophisticated.
Apply Your Knowledge
Practice what you just learned with these songs