11th chord

Definition

An 11th chord is a type of extended chord that includes the root, third, fifth, seventh, and eleventh degrees of a scale. It builds on the seventh chord by adding an additional note, the eleventh, which creates a richer and more complex sound. This chord is commonly used in jazz and contemporary music to add color and tension to harmonic progressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. An 11th chord can be represented as C11, which implies it is built on the root C and includes the notes C, E, G, B♭, and F.
2. The 11th is typically added on top of a dominant seventh chord (e.g., G7 becomes G11) to enhance harmonic richness.
3. In jazz, 11th chords are often voiced with omissions; for example, the third may be omitted to allow the 11th to resonate without clashing.
4. The presence of the 11th degree creates added tension in music, often leading to resolutions or transitions to other chords.
5. When using 11th chords, it’s important to consider voice leading and spacing between notes to maintain clarity and coherence in harmonies.

Review Questions

• How does an 11th chord relate to the concept of extended harmony in music?
  • An 11th chord is a key example of extended harmony as it goes beyond basic triads and seventh chords by adding an eleventh degree. This extension not only enriches the chord but also introduces new tonal colors that can lead to unique harmonic progressions. Understanding how 11th chords function in relation to seventh chords helps musicians explore deeper harmonic possibilities and create more complex compositions.
• What role do altered chords play when combined with 11th chords in jazz music?
  • In jazz, altered chords frequently appear alongside 11th chords to create tension and interest. When musicians use altered extensions like a flat ninth or sharp ninth with an 11th chord, they enhance its complexity while preserving its rich harmonic texture. This combination encourages creative improvisation and allows performers to explore a wider range of emotional expression within their music.
• Analyze how voice leading techniques impact the use of 11th chords in composition.
  • Voice leading techniques are essential when incorporating 11th chords into composition because they determine how smoothly individual musical lines transition from one note to another. Effective voice leading ensures that the addition of the 11th degree doesn't result in muddiness or dissonance within the overall harmony. By strategically spacing the notes of an 11th chord and considering their movement relative to other chords, composers can achieve a clear yet complex sound that enhances the overall musical narrative.

Related terms

Seventh Chord: A chord that consists of a root, third, fifth, and seventh degree of a scale, providing a foundation for creating extended chords.

Altered Chords: Chords that have one or more notes modified from their original form, often used to create tension and resolution in harmony.

Suspended Chord: A chord that replaces the third with either the second or fourth degree, creating a sense of suspension and unresolved tension.