Introduction to 7th Chords Microlesson

This section will serve as an introduction to 7th Chords, including Major, Dominant, Minor, Augmented, Diminished, Half Diminished, and Fully Diminished 7th Chords.

Lesson Key Terms:

Natural Minor Scales: This scale uses the same tonic as the major scale. To create a natural minor scale, use lowered third; lowered sixth; and lowered seventh degrees from the major scale.
Harmonic Minor Scale: The harmonic minor scale has two lowered scale degrees, the 3rd degree, and the 6th degree. Using the major scale as a foundation, lower the 3rd and 6th degrees of the major scale. The result is the Harmonic Minor Scale.
Melodic Minor Scale: This is the most unusual minor scale because it has distinct parts for ascending and descending. When ascending, the Melodic Minor Scale only lowers the 3^rd scale degree; but when descending, the 3^rd, 6^th, and 7^th degrees are lowered, which is technically using the Natural Minor Scale.

Explore

Watch the following video to learn about 7th Chords. Prepare to take notes and use the navigational buttons at the bottom of the video to pause, rewind, or move forward. Move forward to the challenge section to review your understanding.

Challenge

Introduction to 7th Chords Challenge Activity

See how well you understand the content for this lesson by participating in the self-assessment activity below!

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