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Playing extended chords, such as ninths, elevenths, and thirteenths, can add richness and complexity to your music. These chords are used across many genres, from jazz to classical, and mastering them on different instruments can greatly expand your musical palette.
Understanding Extended Chords
Extended chords build upon basic triads by adding additional intervals beyond the seventh. For example, a C major 9th chord includes the notes C, E, G, B, and D. These chords create a lush, full sound that can evoke emotion and sophistication in your playing.
Common Extended Chords
- 9th chords: add the ninth note to a seventh chord
- 11th chords: include the eleventh (or fourth an octave higher)
- 13th chords: incorporate the thirteenth (or sixth an octave higher)
Playing Extended Chords on Piano
The piano offers the flexibility to voice extended chords in many ways. Use your left hand to play the root and fifth, while your right hand can voice the remaining notes. Experiment with inversions to find smooth, playable voicings.
For example, a C13 chord can be played as:
- C (root)
- E (major third)
- B♭ (minor seventh)
- A (thirteenth)
Playing Extended Chords on Guitar
Guitarists often simplify extended chords due to the instrument’s limitations. Use barre chords or partial voicings to imply the chord’s color. For example, a C9 can be played as a barre chord on the 3rd fret with added notes on the higher strings.
Try these voicings:
- Root on the 3rd fret of the 5th string (C)
- Open D string (D)
- 3rd fret of the 4th string (F)
- 3rd fret of the 3rd string (A)
- 3rd fret of the 2nd string (Bb)
Playing Extended Chords on Wind Instruments
Wind instrument players can incorporate extended chords by adjusting embouchure and fingering to target specific notes. Use arpeggios and chord tones to outline the harmony effectively.
For example, a saxophonist can play a C13 by emphasizing the notes C, E, G, B♭, and A in succession or simultaneously, depending on the context.
Practical Tips for Playing Extended Chords
- Start with basic chords and add notes gradually.
- Use inversions to make chords easier to voice on your instrument.
- Listen to recordings of jazz and classical music to understand how professionals voice extended chords.
- Practice voicing chords in different positions to improve flexibility.
- Experiment with different instruments to find the voicing that suits your style.
Examples and Exercises
Try playing a Cmaj9 chord on your instrument and then move to a G13 to explore different sounds. Record yourself and listen for smooth voice leading and clarity of notes.
Exercise: Play the following chord progressions using extended chords:
- Cmaj9 – Fmaj9 – G13
- Dm9 – G13 – Cmaj9
- Em11 – A13 – Dmaj9
Incorporate these chords into your improvisations and compositions to add depth and sophistication to your music.
Conclusion
Mastering extended chords across different instruments enhances your musical expression and versatility. With practice and experimentation, you can incorporate these rich harmonies into your playing, enriching your musical journey.