The five types of seventh chords

Jazz Harmony and Seventh Chords

Jazz harmony is primarily based on four-note seventh chords. Let's explore the different types of seventh chords that are commonly used.

Types of Seventh Chords

1. C Major 7

   • Based on the root, third, fifth, and seventh of the major scale.
   • Symbol: Triangle or major 7 symbol.

2. C7 (Dominant Seventh)

   • Features a flattened seventh.

3. C Minor 7

   • Flatten the third.
   • Sometimes written with a minor sign instead of a lowercase "m".

4. C Minor 7 Flat 5

   • This describes exactly what it is.
   • Also known as a half-diminished chord, represented by a circle with a slash through it.

5. C Diminished Seventh

   • Same as before, but with a flattened A diminished seventh (double-flattened seventh).
   • Specifically, this is referred to as an A, which is the same note as the sixth in the C diminished seventh.

Practice Tips

• Get used to playing these chords in different keys.

• For instance, on F, you may want to practice with a metronome. Set it to 100 BPM and follow this pattern:

  • F Major 7
  • F7 (Dominant Seventh)
  • F Minor 7
  • F Half Diminished
  • F Diminished

• Adjust the tempos until you feel comfortable. Ensure you can find the five chords and play them cleanly.

• Say the names out loud as you practice. Do this exercise in a different key every day, and you'll quickly learn all your chords, that's 12 times 5, totaling 60 different chords!

Arpeggio Exercise

It's also beneficial to play these chords as arpeggios in your right hand while keeping time with your left hand.

1. Start with C Major 7 and play each arpeggio twice, just in case you don't get it right the first time!

2. Play these arpeggios using swing quavers.

3. Notice that you're playing the chord on the first beat of the bar.

This exercise is excellent for strengthening your fourth and fifth fingers, which tend to be weaker. By practicing in different keys, you'll gradually strengthen these fingers!