Essential Jazz Chords Explained

A variety of fundamental jazz chords are outlined, including major seventh, minor seventh, dominant seventh, diminished seventh, and half-diminished seventh chords. Each chord type is discussed in terms of its structure, including the necessary tones for construction, such as the root, third, fifth, and seventh notes. The significance of extensions, such as ninths and thirteenths, is emphasized, explaining how they enhance the sound and complexity of the chords. For example, a major seventh chord typically includes the root, major third, perfect fifth, and major seventh, with variations adding the ninth and possibly the sharp eleventh for richer harmonies.