Glossary
Diatonic Seventh Chords
Seventh chords built using only the notes of a specific major or minor scale.
Example:
In C major, the G7 chord is a Diatonic Seventh Chord because all its notes (G-B-D-F) are found within the C major scale.
Diminished Seventh Chord (o7 or dd)
A seventh chord constructed with a root, minor third, diminished fifth, and diminished seventh above the root.
Example:
A C#-E-G-B♭♭ (A) is a Diminished Seventh Chord, known for its intense dissonance and symmetrical structure, often used for dramatic effect.
Dissonance
A combination of notes that creates a sense of tension, instability, or a need for resolution.
Example:
The clash of a minor second interval creates a strong Dissonance, demanding a subsequent consonant chord to resolve it.
Dominant Seventh Chord (Mm)
A seventh chord constructed with a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh above the root, typically built on the fifth scale degree.
Example:
The G-B-D-F in C major is a powerful Dominant Seventh Chord that strongly pulls towards the tonic, creating essential harmonic tension.
First Inversion
A chord inversion where the third of the chord is the lowest sounding note.
Example:
A C major triad with E in the bass is in First Inversion, often used to create smoother bass lines in a progression.
Half-Diminished Seventh Chord (ø7 or dm)
A seventh chord constructed with a root, minor third, diminished fifth, and minor seventh above the root.
Example:
The viiø7 chord in a major key, like B-D-F-A in C major, is a Half-Diminished Seventh Chord that provides a softer dissonance than its fully diminished counterpart.
Leading Tone
The seventh scale degree in a major or harmonic/melodic minor scale, which is a half step below the tonic and creates a strong pull towards it.
Example:
In G major, F# is the Leading Tone that strongly resolves up to G, giving a sense of arrival.
Major Seventh Chord (MM or M7)
A seventh chord constructed with a root, major third, perfect fifth, and major seventh above the root.
Example:
The 'I' chord in a major key, like C-E-G-B in C major, is a beautiful Major Seventh Chord often used for a bright, resolved sound.
Minor Seventh Chord (mm)
A seventh chord constructed with a root, minor third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh above the root.
Example:
A common chord in jazz and pop, an A-C-E-G is a Minor Seventh Chord that often creates a mellow or contemplative mood.
Resolution
The movement from a dissonant chord or interval to a consonant one, providing a sense of stability and release.
Example:
After the tension of a V7 chord, the move to a I chord provides a satisfying Resolution, bringing the musical phrase to a close.
Root Position
A chord inversion where the root of the chord is the lowest sounding note.
Example:
A C major Root Position triad has C in the bass, providing a stable foundation for the harmony.
Second Inversion
A chord inversion where the fifth of the chord is the lowest sounding note.
Example:
A C major triad with G in the bass is in Second Inversion, frequently used as a cadential six-four chord before a dominant.
Seventh Chords
Four-note chords built by extending a triad with an additional note a seventh interval above the root.
Example:
A jazz pianist might add a Seventh Chord to a simple melody, instantly making it sound richer and more complex.
Subdominant
The fourth scale degree of a major or minor scale, often associated with the IV or iv chord.
Example:
In the key of C major, F is the Subdominant scale degree, and the F major chord (IV) often precedes the dominant.
Third Inversion
A seventh chord inversion where the seventh of the chord is the lowest sounding note.
Example:
A G7 chord with F in the bass is in Third Inversion, creating a strong pull to the tonic with the seventh resolving downwards.
Triad
A three-note chord built from a root, a third, and a fifth.
Example:
The basic C-E-G is a C major Triad, forming the fundamental building block for many harmonies.
Voice Leading
The melodic movement of individual musical lines (voices) within a chord progression, aiming for smoothness and avoiding large leaps or parallel perfect intervals.
Example:
Good Voice Leading ensures that each part in a choir moves gracefully from one note to the next, creating a cohesive and pleasing sound.