What is an altered dominant chord?
An altered dominant chord, also known as a dominant seventh flat fifth chord, is a type of chord commonly used in jazz and other forms of music. It is formed by adding a flat fifth and one or more altered tones to a dominant seventh chord. This chord is characterized by its rich and complex sound, which adds depth and interest to the music it is used in.
Altered dominant chords are created by altering the notes of a dominant seventh chord. The dominant seventh chord itself is formed by combining a major triad with a minor seventh interval. To create an altered dominant chord, one or more of the following notes are added or altered:
1. Flat fifth: This note is added to the dominant seventh chord, creating a diminished fifth interval between the root and the fifth.
2. Minor seventh: This note is replaced with a minor seventh interval, which is a half step lower than the natural minor seventh.
3. Flat ninth: This note is added to the chord, creating a diminished ninth interval between the root and the ninth.
4. Flat thirteenth: This note is added to the chord, creating a diminished thirteenth interval between the root and the thirteenth.
The combination of these altered tones creates a unique and distinctive sound that can be used to express a wide range of emotions and musical ideas. In jazz, altered dominant chords are often used to create tension and resolution, and to explore the harmonies of a tune in new and interesting ways.
One of the most common uses of altered dominant chords is in jazz improvisation. Musicians often use these chords to create melodic lines that are both harmonically rich and rhythmically interesting. Altered dominant chords can also be used to create a sense of tension and release in a composition, as the altered tones create a sense of instability that is resolved when the chord is eventually resolved to a more stable chord.
In conclusion, an altered dominant chord is a versatile and powerful tool for musicians, offering a wide range of possibilities for expression and improvisation. By understanding the structure and sound of this chord, musicians can add depth and complexity to their music, creating a more engaging and rewarding listening experience.
