CHORD EXTENSIONS: 9ths, 11ths, 13ths, oh my!

Understanding Chord Extensions

Introduction to Chords

• The basic triad consists of a root, third, and fifth. In the key of C major, these notes are C (root), E (third), and G (fifth) .

• Triads can be played in various positions as long as the notes C, E, and G are present in any order or octave .

Adding Extensions: Ninth Chords

• To create a ninth chord, add the ninth note from the scale. For C major, this is D (the second note) which also serves as the ninth when added to a C7 chord .

• Omitting the fifth (G) is common since it doesn't significantly alter the chord's identity unless altered .

Further Extensions: Eleventh and Thirteenth Chords

• Continuing up the scale leads to an eleventh; using a sharp 11th enhances sound quality on major seven chords .

• A major 13 chord includes root, third, seventh, and thirteenth notes. Essential notes are root, third, and seventh while extensions include ninth and sharp eleventh .

Understanding Dominant Chords

• Dominant seventh chords have a flattened seventh. For example, in C7: root is C, third is E, fifth is G but with B flat as the seventh .

• Alterations like sharp nine or flat nine can be applied by adjusting finger positioning on frets .

Sus4 and Other Variants

• A sus4 chord can function similarly to an eleventh but lacks a third; for instance, C9 sus4 includes root, seventh, ninth with F as sus4 .

• Sharp 11th chords require knowledge of where these extensions fit within existing structures .

Minor Chords Overview

• Minor 7 chords require both a flattened third and flattened seventh. An example would be E flat instead of E for minor scales .

• Minor 7 flat 5 chords lead into half-diminished structures that utilize specific alterations like sharp elevens or flats depending on context .

Practical Application of Concepts

• Example given includes an E minor 9 chord consisting of root E with additional notes forming its structure including minor sevenths [].

Chords and Voicings in Music

Exploring Chord Structures

• The speaker discusses a voicing for an A13 chord, describing it as easy to play and accessible for musicians.

• Transitioning to a D69 chord, the speaker notes its structure includes the root, third, sixth (69), and fifth.

• The speaker highlights the similarity in shape when moving to an E minor 7 chord, emphasizing its familiarity among players.

Chord Progressions

• Introduction of a B7 sharp five or flat thirteen chord that leads smoothly into an E minor 9.

• Discussion of an A7 flat thirteen or sharp five chord transitioning nicely into a D major 9 or D69 chord.