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11.2 · Sevenths & Jazz

A 7th on every step

Build a four-note chord on every step of C major, using only scale notes. The scale hands each step its own flavor. No choices to make, the key decides. This is the chord set jazz tunes are written in.

The key, upgraded

Seven steps, seven seventh chords. Hear the whole family climb. The colors are the same roles, in richer voices.

The seven 7ths of C major

The pattern is fixed in every major key: maj7 · m7 · m7 · maj7 · 7 · m7 · ø7. Only one step gets the dominant flavor (V), and only one gets half-diminished (vii).

Triad vs. seventh, side by side

Each pair is the same chord in both wardrobes. The role doesn't change; the voice does.

Quiz

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In any major key, which step carries the dominant 7th flavor?

Score 100% on every quiz and game to complete this lesson.The ii–V–I →