Seventh Chords

1. Definition of Seventh Chords

  • Seventh chords are specific types of chords that consist of four notes: the root, third, fifth, and seventh. These chords are essential in harmony and can be categorized based on their quality.

2. Types of Seventh Chords

  • Major Seventh Chord: Consists of a major triad plus a major seventh from the root note.
  • Minor Seventh Chord: Consists of a minor triad plus a major seventh from the root note.
  • Dominant Seventh Chord: Consists of a major triad plus a minor seventh from the root note.
  • Diminished Seventh Chord: Consists of a diminished triad plus a diminished seventh from the root note.
  • Fully-Diminished Seventh Chord: Similar to the diminished seventh chord, but includes a diminished seventh interval from the root, specifically classifying it as fully-diminished.

3. Labeling Seventh Chords

  • Major-Major (E Major): Characterized by the intervals creating a bright and stable sound.

    • Example: E Major: E - G# - B - D#

  • Minor-Minor (D minor): Creates a somber tone, often used in minor-key compositions.

    • Example: D Minor: D - F - A - C

  • Major-Minor (C dominant): Typically found in blues and jazz, creates tension that resolves to a major chord.

    • Example: C Dominant: C - E - G - Bb

  • Major-Major (E Major repeated): Reinforces the stability and brightness associated with the major-major configuration, indicating its prevalence in the repertoire.

    • Example: E Major is reiterated to highlight its importance.

4. Writing Seventh Chords

  • The knowledge of constructing seventh chords is essential for performance and composition. Include variations based on the type of seventh chord.

  • Eb Dominant: The dominant seventh chord rooted in Eb, frequently used in modulating progressions.

    • Example: Eb Dominant: Eb - G - Bb - Db

  • G Minor: A minor seventh chord rooted in G, providing depth and emotional resonance in compositions.

    • Example: G Minor: G - Bb - D - F

  • C Major: Another major triad avoiding complexity in its articulation while creating harmonic stability.

    • Example: C Major: C - E - G

  • F#1 (F# Major): A major triad with a specific tonal center, ensuring tonal variety in composition.

5. Exam Preparation

  • Be prepared to label and write major, minor, and dominant seventh chords accurately during evaluations.
  • Ensure clarity in distinguishing between types of seventh chords and their respective qualities as well as functionalities within harmonic progressions.