Introduction to Seventh Chords
Seventh chords are four-note chords consisting of a triad plus a seventh interval above the root. They add richness, tension, and harmonic color to music, making them essential in classical, jazz, and pop compositions.
In AP Music Theory, you must identify, construct, and analyze seventh chords in various contexts. This guide covers:
✔ 5 Types of Seventh Chords
✔ Inversions & Figured Bass
✔ Analysis & Voice Leading
✔ Common Progressions
✔ Practice Exercises
1. Types of Seventh Chords
There are five main types of seventh chords, categorized by their triad quality and seventh interval:
| Chord Type | Triad + 7th | Example (C Root) | Symbol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major Seventh (M7) | Major triad + M7 | C-E-G-B | Cmaj7 |
| Dominant Seventh (V7) | Major triad + m7 | C-E-G-Bâ™ | C7 |
| Minor Seventh (m7) | Minor triad + m7 | C-Eâ™-G-Bâ™ | Cm7 |
| Half-Diminished Seventh (ø7) | Diminished triad + m7 | C-Eâ™-Gâ™-Bâ™ | Cø7 |
| Fully Diminished Seventh (°7) | Diminished triad + d7 | C-Eâ™-Gâ™-Bâ™â™ | C°7 |
Key Differences:
- Major 7th (M7): Bright, jazzy sound (e.g., Cmaj7 = C-E-G-B).
- Dominant 7th (V7): Tense, needs resolution (e.g., G7 → Cmaj7).
- Minor 7th (m7): Smooth, melancholic (e.g., Dm7 = D-F-A-C).
- Half-Diminished (ø7): Dark, used in minor iiø7-V7-i.
- Fully Diminished (°7): Highly dissonant, often resolves inward.
2. Seventh Chord Inversions & Figured Bass
Like triads, seventh chords can be inverted (the bass note changes).
| Inversion | Bass Note | Figured Bass | Example (G7) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root Position | Root (G) | 7 | G-B-D-F |
| First Inversion | 3rd (B) | 6/5 | B-D-F-G |
| Second Inversion | 5th (D) | 4/3 | D-F-G-B |
| Third Inversion | 7th (F) | 4/2 | F-G-B-D |
How to Remember:
- Root Position:Â “7”
- First Inversion:Â “6/5” (3rd in bass)
- Second Inversion:Â “4/3” (5th in bass)
- Third Inversion:Â “4/2” (7th in bass)
3. Analyzing Seventh Chords in Music
In AP Music Theory, you’ll analyze seventh chords in Roman numeral analysis and lead-sheet symbols.
Example in C Major:
- Dominant 7th (V7):Â G7 (G-B-D-F)
- Leading to tonic (I): G7 → C
Voice Leading Rules:
✔ 7th resolves down by step.
✔ Avoid parallel 5ths/8ves.
✔ Tendency tones (leading tone) resolve up.
4. Common Seventh Chord Progressions
Jazz & Classical Progressions:
- ii7 – V7 – I (Jazz Standard)
- Dm7 → G7 → Cmaj7
- Circle of Fifths Progression
- Cmaj7 → Fmaj7 → Bø7 → E7 → Am7 → D7 → Gmaj7
- Blues Progression (I7-IV7-V7)
- C7 → F7 → G7
5. Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Identify the Seventh Chord
- Notes: F-A-C-Eâ™Â → Answer: F minor 7 (Fm7)
- Notes: B-D♯-F♯-A → Answer: B dominant 7 (B7)
Exercise 2: Build a Dominant 7th Chord on D
- Answer:Â D-F#-A-C
Conclusion: Mastering Seventh Chords for AP Music Theory
Seventh chords are essential for harmony, composition, and analysis in AP Music Theory. By understanding:
✔ Chord types & symbols
✔ Inversions & figured bass
✔ Voice leading & progressions
✔ Practice strategies
You’ll be well-prepared for the exam!
Need more help? Check out our [AP Music Theory Ultimate Guide] for more tips! 🎵
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