How Larger Chord Formulas Work
Most chords are built on top of triads, so constructing larger chords is simply a matter od adding additioanal scale tones to the original triad.
Formula CMajor : C - D - E - F - G - A - B - C
The formula for Major7 chords is Root 3-5-7. This means that we combine the root, 3rd, 5th and 7th degrees of the major scale to build the chord. Notice that what we have actually done is add the 7thdegree to a major triad.
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Extensions
Many chords use notes that actually lie beyond a one octave major scale. Since an octave contains only eight notes, these would include chords that have 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths. These are called extensions. Where do these notes come from?, we get the extended notes (beyond the octave) by continuing the major scale up through a second octave. Work using Cmin11 chord, the formulas is Root-b3-5-b7-9-11. Chords are usually named for the highest extension present. So, even though the b7 and 9 are part of the chord, it is still called min11.
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Interval Larger Chords
Larger chords can be inverted like triads, too. The only difference is that since they have four notes, they invert three times instead of only two.
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Voicings
Other arrangements of the notes, or voicings, can also be used. In this case, each note in a chord is referred to as a voice. Here are two examples of voicings gor the CMaj7 chord.
The guitar presents fingering problem that don't exist on the keyboard, ourchordal cousin. It will sometimes be necerssary to eliminate certain tones from the chord you are building. These will be explained as each type of chord is discussed in future lessons. Don't let this limitation bother you. There are more great sounding chords to play than you could ever learn.
Another consideration is how to execute these larger chords with the right hand. Most chords in this book can be played with a pick, while some work better when fingerpicked.
