Seventh: A musical term referring to the interval between two notes, with seven letter names apart, often measured in terms of semitones in Western music theory.
Context and Significance
The seventh interval plays a crucial role in music composition and harmony. It is commonly used in jazz, blues, and classical music to add tension and resolution within a piece. The seventh interval can be major, minor, diminished, or augmented, each offering a unique color to the harmony. In jazz, for instance, seventh chords are foundational, providing the rich, complex sounds that define the genre. On instruments like the piano and guitar, seventh chords are frequently utilized to enhance musical expressiveness.
Historical Background
The concept of the seventh interval dates back to the early days of music theory, where it was initially considered dissonant. Over time, with the evolution of music styles and theories, the seventh interval found its place in the harmonic language, particularly during the Romantic era. Composers like Beethoven and Chopin explored the emotional depth that seventh chords could provide, paving the way for modern genres to embrace its versatility.
Examples
In the jazz standard “Autumn Leaves,” seventh chords are used extensively to create a lush harmonic backdrop. Classical pieces like Chopin’s Nocturnes also utilize seventh intervals to evoke deep emotion. Modern artists, such as The Beatles, have popularized the use of seventh chords in songs like “All My Loving,” showcasing their adaptability across genres.
Related Terms
Triad: A three-note chord, the foundation for constructing seventh chords.
Augmented Seventh: A seventh interval extended by one semitone.
Diminished Seventh: A seventh interval reduced by two semitones.
Dominant Seventh: A chord consisting of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh.