Cmaj7

Definition

Cmaj7 is a seventh chord built on the root note C, consisting of the notes C, E, G, and B. This chord is characterized by its major triad and a major seventh, giving it a bright and rich sound. It plays a crucial role in both major and minor tonalities, providing color and tension in harmonic progressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Cmaj7 chord is often used in jazz and pop music due to its rich harmonic texture.
2. In the key of C major, Cmaj7 functions as the tonic chord, providing a sense of resolution and stability.
3. Cmaj7 can be voiced in various ways, including different inversions that change its sound and texture.
4. The addition of the major seventh (B) creates a unique sound that differentiates it from a standard major triad (C, E, G).
5. Cmaj7 can also lead to other chords, such as Dm7 or G7, creating smooth transitions in progressions.

Review Questions

• How does the Cmaj7 chord function within the key of C major?
  • In the key of C major, the Cmaj7 chord serves as the tonic chord, meaning it provides a sense of home and stability. Its structure includes the notes C, E, G, and B, which create a rich harmonic foundation. The presence of the major seventh (B) adds warmth and complexity to its sound, making it essential for establishing the tonal center of C major.
• Compare and contrast Cmaj7 with a standard major triad. What makes them distinct?
  • Cmaj7 differs from a standard C major triad by including an additional note: the major seventh (B). While both chords share the root (C), third (E), and fifth (G), the triad's sound is simpler and more straightforward. The inclusion of the seventh adds depth and richness to the Cmaj7 chord, making it more suitable for genres like jazz where complex harmonies are often desired.
• Evaluate how using Cmaj7 can influence a chord progression in terms of emotional impact and transition.
  • Using Cmaj7 in a chord progression can greatly enhance its emotional impact due to its lush sound. The addition of the major seventh creates a feeling of tension that can resolve beautifully when moving to other chords like Dm7 or G7. This smooth transition not only maintains listener interest but also contributes to an overall sense of sophistication in the harmony, allowing composers to evoke various moods throughout their music.

Related terms

Major Seventh Chord: A chord that consists of a major triad plus a major seventh interval above the root note.

Chord Progression: A sequence of chords played in succession, forming the harmonic backbone of a piece of music.

Tonic: The first scale degree of a key, serving as the home base around which other chords and notes are organized.