Easy Tricks to Remember Thirteenth Chord Tones and Extensions

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Understanding thirteenth chords and their extensions can be challenging for many musicians. However, with some simple tricks, you can easily remember these complex chord tones and enrich your harmonic vocabulary.

What Are Thirteenth Chords?

Thirteenth chords are extended chords that include the 13th note of the scale along with other chord tones. They are built by stacking thirds on top of a root note, typically including the root, third, fifth, seventh, ninth, eleventh, and thirteenth.

Common Challenges in Memorizing Thirteenth Tones

Many musicians find it difficult to remember all the extensions, especially the 11th and 13th, which often get altered or omitted in practice. The key is to develop mental shortcuts that simplify the process.

Easy Tricks to Remember Thirteenth Extensions

  • Think of the 13th as the 6th an octave higher. Since the 13th is the same as the 6th, just an octave up, visualizing it as a 6th can help you remember its position.
  • Remember the sequence of extensions. The typical order is 9, 11, 13. Visualize this as climbing a ladder: 9 is a second above the root, 11 is a fourth, and 13 is a sixth.
  • Use mnemonic devices. For example, “Naughty Elephants Smell Delicious” can help recall the extensions: N (9), E (11), S (13).
  • Associate the 13th with familiar melodies. Think of common songs that use extended chords and identify the 13th tone within them.
  • Practice with scales. Play the scale and identify the 13th note relative to the root to internalize its sound and position.

Tricks for Remembering Chord Tones

  • Root and 3rd are the foundation. Always start by solidifying these tones, then add the 7th and extensions.
  • Use chord diagrams and charts. Visual aids can help reinforce the positions of each tone on your instrument or keyboard.
  • Practice arpeggios. Play arpeggios that include the 13th to familiarize your ear with its sound.
  • Break down complex chords into smaller groups. Focus on mastering the core triad first, then add the extensions one by one.
  • Sing the tones. Vocalizing the notes helps internalize their pitch and relationship.

Conclusion

By using these simple tricks—visual associations, mnemonic devices, and targeted practice—you can master the thirteenth chord tones and extensions with confidence. Incorporate these strategies into your daily practice to enhance your harmonic understanding and improvisation skills.