Jazz guitar is known for its rich harmonies and complex chords. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding some key jazz guitar chords can really enhance your playing. Let’s dive into ten essential jazz guitar chords that every player should know. These chords will help you add depth and color to your music.
1. Major 7 (Maj7)
The Major 7 chord is a staple in jazz. It’s bright and smooth. To play a Cmaj7, use the following frets:
- Cmaj7: X32000
This chord includes the root (C), major third (E), perfect fifth (G), and major seventh (B).
2. Minor 7 (Min7)
The Minor 7 chord gives a softer, more reflective sound. For a Dm7, try this:
- Dm7: X00211
It consists of the root (D), minor third (F), perfect fifth (A), and minor seventh (C).
3. Dominant 7 (7)
The Dominant 7 chord is versatile and adds a jazzy feel. For a G7, you can play:
- G7: 320001
This chord includes the root (G), major third (B), perfect fifth (D), and minor seventh (F).
4. Minor 7 Flat 5 (m7b5)
Also known as the half-diminished chord, it adds tension and interest. For Bm7b5:
- Bm7b5: X20222
It includes the root (B), minor third (D), diminished fifth (F), and minor seventh (A).
5. Diminished 7 (dim7)
The Diminished 7 chord is very tense and can add a dramatic flair. Try an Adim7:
- Adim7: X01212
It contains the root (A), minor third (C), diminished fifth (Eb), and diminished seventh (Gb).
6. Major 6 (Maj6)
The Major 6 chord adds a warm, rich quality to your sound. For an A6:
- A6: X02222
This chord includes the root (A), major third (C#), perfect fifth (E), and major sixth (F#).
7. Minor 6 (Min6)
The Minor 6 chord combines the minor sound with a touch of sweetness. For a Cm6:
- Cm6: X35555
It consists of the root (C), minor third (Eb), perfect fifth (G), and major sixth (A).
8. Major 7 Sharp 5 (Maj7#5)
The Major 7 Sharp 5 chord adds a dreamy, floating quality. For a Cmaj7#5:
- Cmaj7#5: X32013
It includes the root (C), major third (E), augmented fifth (G#), and major seventh (B).
9. Minor Major 7 (mM7)
The Minor Major 7 chord is haunting and complex. For an EmM7:
- EmM7: 022100
It has the root (E), minor third (G), perfect fifth (B), and major seventh (D#).
10. Altered Dominant 7 (7alt)
The Altered Dominant 7 chord is great for creating tension before resolving. For a G7alt:
- G7alt: 3X345X
This chord usually involves alterations like a flat or sharp fifth or ninth, adding a unique flavor.
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