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Welcome to our beginner’s guide to incorporating augmented major seventh chords into your guitar licks and riffs. These chords add a unique, jazzy flavor to your playing and can elevate your musical expression. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your harmonic vocabulary, understanding how to use augmented major seventh chords is a valuable skill.
Understanding the Augmented Major Seventh Chord
The augmented major seventh chord, often notated as AM7+ or Maj7+, combines a root, major third, augmented fifth, and major seventh. Its distinctive sound is both bright and mysterious, making it a popular choice in jazz, fusion, and modern guitar styles.
In terms of intervals, it consists of:
- Root
- Major third (4th fret on the 3rd string in G major)
- Augmented fifth (raised 5th, or 8th fret on the 4th string in G)
- Major seventh (11th fret on the 2nd string in G)
Common Shapes and Fingerings
One of the simplest ways to play an augmented major seventh chord is in the open position or as a barre chord. Here are some common shapes:
Shape 1: Root on the 6th string (Barre)
Place your index finger across all strings on the 4th fret. Form the chord with your other fingers on the 5th fret of the 5th string (A string), 6th fret of the 4th string (D string), and 4th fret of the 3rd string (G string).
Shape 2: Open position (G Major 7+)
Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string (A string), middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 4th string (D string), ring finger on the 4th fret of the 3rd string (G string), and pinky on the 4th fret of the 2nd string (B string).
Creating Guitar Licks with Augmented Major Seventh Chords
Integrating augmented major seventh chords into your riffs can add a sophisticated sound. Here are some ideas for creating compelling licks:
- Use the chord as a passing harmony between major chords.
- Play arpeggios based on the augmented major seventh chord tones.
- Incorporate slides and bends to emphasize the augmented intervals.
Example 1: Arpeggio Lick
Play the notes of the augmented major seventh chord ascending and descending to create a melodic line. For example, starting on the root, then moving up to the major third, augmented fifth, and major seventh, then back down.
Example 2: Passing Chord
Use the augmented major seventh chord as a passing harmony between a C major and G major chord. Play C major, then slide into the augmented major seventh chord, and resolve to G major.
Tips for Beginners
Start slow and focus on cleanly playing each note. Experiment with different voicings and fingerings to find what sounds best to you. Listening to jazz standards and modern guitar solos can also inspire your use of these chords.
Remember, incorporating new chords takes time. Practice regularly, and soon you’ll be able to seamlessly include augmented major seventh chords into your riffs and solos, adding a new dimension to your guitar playing.