Major Seventh Chord

Definition

A major seventh chord is a four-note chord consisting of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and a major seventh. This chord creates a rich and complex sound that is often used in various musical styles, particularly in jazz and contemporary music. It can be built on any note and follows a specific formula based on the intervals between its notes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The major seventh chord is represented by the notation 'Cmaj7' when built on the note C, indicating its major quality and the inclusion of the seventh.
2. The intervals between the notes of a major seventh chord are: root to major third (4 half steps), root to perfect fifth (7 half steps), and root to major seventh (11 half steps).
3. In the context of a major key, the major seventh chord is typically found on the I chord and can also appear in various harmonic progressions.
4. Major seventh chords add color and emotional depth to music, often conveying feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
5. They are commonly used in jazz, where they can function as both tonic and predominant chords, allowing for sophisticated harmonic movement.

Review Questions

• Compare and contrast the structure of a major seventh chord with that of a triad.
  • A major seventh chord differs from a triad in that it consists of four notes instead of three. A triad includes the root, major third, and perfect fifth. In contrast, a major seventh chord adds an additional note: the major seventh. This added note introduces greater harmonic complexity and richness to the sound compared to the simpler three-note triad.
• How does the use of major seventh chords differ in major keys compared to minor keys?
  • In major keys, major seventh chords typically occur on the I chord, which enhances the sense of resolution and stability. In contrast, while minor keys can also use major seventh chords, they are often found in less stable contexts or as borrowed chords from parallel modes. This contrast highlights how different tonal centers affect the use of these chords within harmonic progressions.
• Evaluate the role of major seventh chords in jazz music and their impact on harmonic progressions.
  • Major seventh chords play a crucial role in jazz music by adding depth and complexity to harmonic progressions. They are often used as tonic or predominant chords, allowing for smooth transitions between chords and creating lush textures within compositions. The ability to alter or extend these chords further enhances their versatility, making them essential for improvisation and sophisticated harmonic movement in jazz standards.

Related terms

Triad: A triad is a three-note chord made up of a root, third, and fifth, forming the basic building block of harmony.

Seventh Chord: A seventh chord includes four notes: the root, third, fifth, and seventh, adding harmonic richness to music.

Diatonic Harmony: Diatonic harmony refers to chords built from the notes of a particular scale, creating a sense of key and tonal structure.