Here's a question asked by beginners about the difference between a Major 7th and a Dominant 7th chord.
In this blog, I will explain the differences between these two chord qualities using some basic theory.
How To Build 7th Chords
Before we get into these chords, let's quickly learn how to build them.
We simply play the root, 3rd, 5th, and 7th notes. A stack of 4-notes.
The 3rds, 5ths, and 7ths can be flattened or sharpened depending on the chord quality.
Major 7th Chord Spellings
The Major 7th is written as maj7, M7, Ma7, or a hollow triangle symbol.
These chords use the major 3rd, perfect 5th, and major 7th intervals relative to the root.
For instance, if we take 'C' as our root, the chord tones would be: C E G B
Dominant 7th Chord Spellings
The Dominant 7th chord is written as '7.'
These chords use the major 3rd, perfect 5th, and minor 7th intervals relative to the root.
Again, if we take 'C' as our root, the chord tones would be: C E G Bb
Functions
Major 7th chords create a stable sound because of the perfect 5th interval between the 3rd and the major 7th.
We find these as the root and the 4th chords of a major scale, the 3rd and the 6th of the natural minor scale, and the 6th of the harmonic minor scale.
Dominant chords create an unstable sound because of the tri-tone (or diminished 5th) interval between the 3rd and the minor 7th.
The dissonance created by this interval makes the dominant an ideal chord for resolving to a tonic chord.
Conclusion
So, simply put, the only difference between a Major 7th and a Dominant 7th is the use of the 7th interval.
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