Altered chords are a fundamental aspect of music theory that many musicians and composers use to create unique and interesting sounds. An altered chord is simply a chord that replaces one or more notes from the diatonic scale with a neighboring pitch from the chromatic scale. By definition, any chord with a non-diatonic chord tone is considered an altered chord.
Altered chords are commonly used in jazz, but they can be found in many other genres of music as well. They can add tension and dissonance to a piece of music, creating a sense of movement and interest. Altered chords are often used to create a sense of resolution or to add color to a chord progression. Understanding altered chords is essential for any musician or composer who wants to create complex and interesting music.
Understanding Altered Chords
Altered chords are chords that have one or more notes from the diatonic scale replaced by a neighboring pitch from the chromatic scale. The altered notes can be raised or lowered a half step, which creates a different sound and adds tension to the chord.
In jazz music, altered chords are commonly used to create more complex and interesting chord progressions. They are often used in dominant seventh chords, which are chords that contain the root, third, fifth, and seventh notes of the dominant scale.
Altered chords can be notated using various symbols, including “+” and “-” signs, as well as sharp and flat symbols. For example, a C7+5 chord would indicate that the fifth note of the chord has been raised, while a C7b9 chord would indicate that the ninth note of the chord has been lowered.
It’s important to note that altered chords can be used as substitutes for other chords in a progression. For instance, a C7b9 chord can be used in place of a G7 chord, which is the dominant seventh chord in the key of C. This substitution can add more harmonic interest to the progression and create a more complex sound.
altered chords are a useful tool for adding tension and complexity to chord progressions in jazz and other genres of music.
Origins of Altered Chords
Altered chords have a long history in Western music, dating back to the Baroque era. During this time, composers used chromaticism to create tension and dissonance in their music. Chromaticism involves the use of notes that are not part of the diatonic scale, which allows for a greater range of expression and emotional depth in music.
One of the earliest examples of altered chords can be found in the music of J.S. Bach. In his Chaconne from the Partita No. 2 in D minor for solo violin, Bach uses chromaticism to create a sense of longing and melancholy. The use of altered chords in this piece is subtle, but it adds a layer of complexity and emotion to the music.
In the 20th century, altered chords became a staple of jazz music. Jazz musicians used altered chords to create tension and dissonance in their music, which allowed for greater improvisation and expression. Altered chords were also used in the blues, where they added a sense of grit and rawness to the music.
Today, altered chords are used in a wide range of musical genres, from rock to pop to classical. They are an essential tool for composers and songwriters who want to create music that is emotionally complex and expressive. By using altered chords, musicians can add a layer of depth and complexity to their music that would be impossible with diatonic chords alone.
Types of Altered Chords
Altered chords are chords that contain one or more notes that are modified (raised or lowered) from their diatonic scale positions. Altered chords are commonly used in jazz and other modern music genres to add color and tension to chord progressions.
Dominant Altered Chords
Dominant altered chords are the most common type of altered chord. They are created by altering the fifth, ninth, and/or eleventh notes of a dominant seventh chord. The five most common types of dominant altered chords are:
- V+ (with a raised fifth)
- V7♯5 (with raised fifth and ninth)
- V♭5 (with lowered fifth)
- V7♭5 (with lowered fifth and raised ninth)
- Vø7 (with lowered fifth and third, the latter enharmonic to a raised ninth)
Dominant altered chords are often used as dominant chords in chord progressions, as they create tension that resolves to the next chord in the progression.
Minor Altered Chords
Minor altered chords are created by altering the third, fifth, and/or seventh notes of a minor chord. The three most common types of minor altered chords are:
- m7♭5 (with lowered fifth and seventh)
- m7♭9 (with lowered third and seventh, and raised ninth)
- m(Maj7)♭5 (with lowered fifth and raised seventh)
Minor altered chords are often used as ii chords in chord progressions, as they create tension that resolves to the dominant chord.
Major Altered Chords
Major altered chords are created by altering the fifth, seventh, and/or ninth notes of a major seventh chord. The three most common types of major altered chords are:
- Maj7♯5 (with raised fifth)
- Maj7♭5 (with lowered fifth)
- Maj7♯11 (with raised fifth and eleventh)
Major altered chords are often used as tonic chords in chord progressions, as they create tension that resolves to the tonic chord.
Usage of Altered Chords in Music
Altered chords are commonly used in various genres of music to add color and tension to chord progressions. In this section, we will explore how altered chords are used in Jazz, Blues, and Pop music.
Jazz
Jazz music is known for its complex harmonies and improvisation. Altered chords are widely used in jazz to create tension and dissonance, which can be resolved to a more stable chord. Altered dominant chords, in particular, are commonly used in jazz to add color and variety to chord progressions.
For example, a C7 chord can be altered by raising or lowering the 5th, 9th, or 13th notes of the chord. This creates altered dominant chords such as C7#5, C7b9, and C7#9, which can be used to create tension and lead to a resolution.
Blues
Blues music is characterized by its simple chord progressions and emotional lyrics. Altered chords are less commonly used in blues than in jazz, but they can still be used to add color and variety to chord progressions.
One common use of altered chords in blues is the use of a dominant 7th sharp 9 chord (also known as the “Hendrix chord”). This chord is often used as a substitute for a regular dominant 7th chord, adding a bluesy and dissonant sound to the progression.
Pop
Pop music is known for its catchy melodies and simple chord progressions. Altered chords are less commonly used in pop than in jazz, but they can still be used to add interest and variety to a song.
One common use of altered chords in pop is the use of a borrowed chord from a parallel key. For example, a song in the key of C major may use an F minor chord (borrowed from the key of C minor) to add a melancholic and emotional sound to the progression.
altered chords are a versatile tool for adding color, tension, and variety to chord progressions in various genres of music. Whether you are a jazz musician looking to add complexity to your improvisation, a blues musician looking to add a dissonant sound to your progression, or a pop musician looking to add interest to your song, altered chords can be a valuable addition to your musical toolkit.
Building Altered Chords
Altered chords are chords that replace one or more notes from the diatonic scale with a neighboring pitch from the chromatic scale. These chords can add tension and color to your music, making them a useful tool for any musician. In this section, we will explore how to build altered chords by altering the fifth and ninth notes of the chord.
Altering the Fifth
One way to alter a chord is to change the fifth note. The fifth is often the first note to be altered in a chord, and it can be raised or lowered to create a new sound. Here are some examples of altered chords with an altered fifth:
| Chord | Altered Fifth | Symbol |
|---|---|---|
| C7 | Flat Five | C7(b5) |
| C7 | Sharp Five | C7(#5) |
| C7 | Flat and Sharp Five | C7(b5,#5) |
Altering the Ninth
Another way to alter a chord is to change the ninth note. The ninth is often the second note to be altered in a chord, and it can also be raised or lowered to create a new sound. Here are some examples of altered chords with an altered ninth:
| Chord | Altered Ninth | Symbol |
|---|---|---|
| C7 | Flat Nine | C7(b9) |
| C7 | Sharp Nine | C7(#9) |
| C7 | Flat and Sharp Nine | C7(b9,#9) |
Altered chords can be used in many different musical genres, but they are especially common in jazz and blues music. By learning how to build altered chords, you can add more depth and complexity to your music and create a unique sound that is all your own.
Benefits of Using Altered Chords
Using altered chords in your music can bring a variety of benefits to your compositions. Here are a few reasons why you should consider using altered chords:
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Adding Tension and Interest: Altered chords can add tension and interest to your music by introducing unexpected harmonic changes. They can create a sense of dissonance and unpredictability, which can be used to create a more dramatic effect in your music.
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Expanding Your Harmonic Vocabulary: Altered chords can be used to expand your harmonic vocabulary and provide you with more options when composing music. By using altered chords, you can create more complex harmonic progressions and explore different tonalities.
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Creating a Unique Sound: Altered chords can help you create a unique sound for your music. By using them in your compositions, you can differentiate your music from others and create a signature style that is all your own.
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Fitting into Different Genres: Altered chords can be used in a variety of genres, including jazz, blues, rock, and pop. They can be used to create a more sophisticated sound in jazz and blues, or a more edgy sound in rock and pop.
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Providing a Challenge: Altered chords can provide a challenge for musicians who are looking to improve their skills. They require a good understanding of music theory and can be used to develop your ear for harmony.
using altered chords in your music can bring a variety of benefits. They can add tension and interest, expand your harmonic vocabulary, create a unique sound, fit into different genres, and provide a challenge for musicians.
Common Misconceptions About Altered Chords
Altered chords can be a bit confusing for musicians who are not familiar with them. Here are some common misconceptions about altered chords:
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Altered chords are only used in jazz music. While altered chords are commonly used in jazz music, they can also be found in other genres such as blues, rock, and pop music. Altered chords can add tension and interest to a chord progression, making it sound more complex and sophisticated.
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Altered chords are too complicated to use. While altered chords may seem complicated at first, they are not as difficult to use as they may seem. Once you understand the basic theory behind altered chords, you can start incorporating them into your playing and compositions.
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Altered chords always sound dissonant. While altered chords can sound dissonant, they can also sound beautiful and complex. Altered chords can be used to create a wide range of emotions and moods in music, from tension and unease to beauty and wonder.
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Altered chords are only for advanced musicians. While altered chords may seem advanced, they can be used by musicians of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced musician, you can start using altered chords in your playing and compositions.
altered chords are a powerful tool that can add interest and complexity to your music. Don’t be intimidated by them – take the time to learn about altered chords and start incorporating them into your playing and compositions.
Conclusion
an altered chord is a chord that replaces one or more notes from the diatonic scale with a neighboring pitch from the chromatic scale. By the broadest definition, any chord with a non-diatonic chord tone is an altered chord.
Altered chords are commonly used in jazz and other genres that use complex harmony. They can add tension and interest to a progression and create a unique sound. Altered chords can be notated in various ways, including with +/- or #/♭ symbols.
It’s important to note that altered chords can be challenging to play and understand, especially for beginners. However, with practice and patience, anyone can learn to use altered chords effectively in their music.
altered chords are a powerful tool for musicians looking to expand their harmonic vocabulary and create more complex and interesting music. By experimenting with different chord voicings and progressions, musicians can unlock a world of creative possibilities and take their music to new heights.
