19/07/2025
Chord Extensions (Simple Explanation):
Chord extensions are extra notes added to basic triads (3-note chords) to make them sound richer or more colorful.
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Basic Triad (3 notes):
Root + 3rd + 5th
Example: C major = C + E + G
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Adding Extensions:
1. 7th – adds the 7th note from the scale
Cmaj7 = C + E + G + B
C7 (dominant) = C + E + G + Bb
2. 9th – adds the 9th (same as 2nd note, but higher)
C9 = C + E + G + Bb + D
3. 11th – adds the 11th (same as 4th)
C11 = C + E + G + Bb + D + F
4. 13th – adds the 13th (same as 6th)
C13 = C + E + G + Bb + D + F + A
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Important Notes:
Extensions are usually built on dominant, major, or minor 7th chords.
Some notes may be left out to avoid a muddy sound (especially on piano).
Not all extensions are used at once; sometimes just the 7th or 9th is added.
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Summary:
Chord extensions add flavor. The more you add (7th, 9th, 11th, 13th), the richer the harmony becomes.