Augmented seventh

Definition

An augmented seventh is a type of seventh chord that consists of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and an augmented sixth above the root. This chord is characterized by its unique sound that creates tension and resolution, often leading to the dominant chord in a harmonic progression. Its distinct structure makes it valuable in both major and minor keys, providing composers with creative harmonic options.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The augmented seventh chord typically appears as a leading tone seventh chord in the context of harmonic progressions, usually resolving to the dominant chord.
2. This chord is often formed by raising the seventh degree of a dominant seventh chord by a half step, creating its distinctive augmented quality.
3. In major keys, the augmented seventh is frequently built on the raised fourth scale degree (leading tone), while in minor keys it commonly appears on the fifth scale degree.
4. The augmented seventh can create a strong sense of movement towards resolution due to its dissonance and the inherent tension between its intervals.
5. Because of its versatile nature, the augmented seventh is used in various styles of music including classical, jazz, and popular genres, enhancing harmonic color.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of an augmented seventh chord contribute to its function in harmonic progressions?
  • The structure of an augmented seventh chord includes a root, major third, perfect fifth, and an augmented sixth above the root. This unique arrangement creates tension that seeks resolution, typically moving towards the dominant chord. The augmented sixth interval particularly enhances this drive by creating an expectation for resolution, making it an effective tool in both major and minor harmonic contexts.
• Compare and contrast the augmented seventh chord with the dominant seventh chord in terms of their construction and musical function.
  • While both the augmented seventh and dominant seventh chords are essential in harmonic progressions, they differ in construction and function. The dominant seventh chord consists of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh, which provides a strong tension that resolves to the tonic. In contrast, the augmented seventh adds an augmented sixth to this structure, intensifying the dissonance and creating a more pronounced expectation for resolution. This makes the augmented seventh particularly useful for leading into dominant chords.
• Evaluate how the use of augmented seventh chords can enhance compositional techniques across different musical genres.
  • Augmented seventh chords offer composers unique harmonic possibilities that enhance their music across various genres. By introducing tension through their distinctive intervallic structure, these chords can drive forward motion and create dramatic moments within a piece. In classical music, they might be used to lead into cadences or modulate to new keys. In jazz and popular music, their ability to evoke emotional responses makes them valuable for crafting interesting progressions. This versatility allows composers to manipulate harmonic texture effectively while keeping listeners engaged.

Related terms

Dominant Seventh Chord: A dominant seventh chord consists of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh, creating a strong tension that resolves to the tonic.

Diminished Seventh Chord: A diminished seventh chord contains a root, minor third, diminished fifth, and diminished seventh, producing a tense and unstable sound often used for dramatic effect.

Functional Harmony: Functional harmony refers to the role of chords within a key, focusing on their relationship and how they lead to resolutions within harmonic progressions.