How to Use Altered Dominant Chords
Altered dominant chords are a powerful tool in jazz and modern music, adding a unique flavor to melodies and harmonies. These chords, which are variations of the dominant seventh chord, offer a wide range of possibilities for improvisation and composition. In this article, we will explore how to use altered dominant chords effectively in your music.
Understanding Altered Dominant Chords
Before diving into how to use altered dominant chords, it’s essential to understand their structure. An altered dominant chord is a dominant seventh chord with at least one of its notes altered. The most common alterations include:
– Flat fifth (b5): Also known as a diminished fifth, this note creates a more dissonant and dramatic sound.
– Flat ninth (b9): Adding a flat ninth to the chord adds a bluesy quality and a sense of tension.
– Flat thirteenth (b13): A flat thirteenth adds a sense of dissonance and can create a more complex harmonic structure.
Choosing the Right Altered Dominant Chord
When using altered dominant chords, it’s important to choose the right one for the situation. Consider the following guidelines:
– Use b5 when you want to create a dissonant or unresolved sound.
– Add b9 for a bluesy or more complex harmonic structure.
– Include b13 for a more advanced harmonic approach.
Harmonic Progressions
Altered dominant chords can be used in various harmonic progressions. Here are a few examples:
– ii-V-I progression: Replace the V7 chord with an altered dominant chord, such as a b9 or b13 chord, to create a more interesting progression.
– ii-V-I-vi-I progression: Use an altered dominant chord in the V7 position to add tension and resolution.
– ii-V-I-IV-I progression: Replace the V7 chord with an altered dominant chord to create a more complex harmonic structure.
Improvisation Techniques
Altered dominant chords offer a wide range of improvisation possibilities. Here are some techniques to consider:
– Use the altered scale over the altered dominant chord, which includes the notes of the major scale plus the b5, b9, and b13.
– Experiment with chromaticism, playing notes that are not in the scale but still resolve to the chord tones.
– Incorporate blue notes, such as the b5 and b9, to add a bluesy feel to your improvisation.
Conclusion
Altered dominant chords are a valuable addition to any musician’s toolkit. By understanding their structure, choosing the right chord, and applying them in various harmonic progressions and improvisation techniques, you can create a more dynamic and expressive sound in your music. So, go ahead and explore the world of altered dominant chords, and let your creativity soar!
