Ab Dominant Thirteen Sharp Eleventh (Ab13(#11)) chords on guitar
Welcome to our tutorial on the Ab 13(#11) chord. This complex and rich sounding chord belongs to the family of Dominant Chords, and is composed of the notes Ab, C, Eb, Gb, Bb, D, and F. Its structure is derived from the sequence of intervals 1, 3, 5, b7, 9, #11, and 13, which translate to the Root, Major Third, Perfect Fifth, Minor Seventh, Major Ninth, Augmented Fourth, and Major Thirteenth, respectively.
Learning how to construct and play this chord requires a solid understanding of guitar music theory and fretboard intervals. The Ab 13(#11) is not a beginner's chord, but rather an intermediate to advanced level chord, often found in jazz and progressive musical styles.
In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of learning this chord, using chord diagrams and fretboard patterns to visualize the tones composing the chord. We will also explain the notation of this chord based on the intervals that compose it.
As a member of the dominant chord family, the Ab 13(#11) chord often appears in jazz chord progressions. If you're interested in exploring more about this family of chords, we recommend checking out our full tutorial on guitar chords.
Remember, understanding and mastering the Ab 13(#11) chord will not only enhance your chord vocabulary but also enrich your overall musical expression. Happy practicing!
Notes in the Ab 13(#11) chord:
How to create the Dominant Thirteen Sharp Eleventh chord:
How To Play The Ab13(#11) chord on guitar
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What makes the Ab 13(#11) chord considered complex?
The Ab 13(#11) chord is considered complex because it is an intermediate to advanced level chord composed of seven distinct notes (Ab, C, Eb, Gb, Bb, D, F) and a detailed sequence of intervals (1, 3, 5, b7, 9, #11, 13). Mastering it requires a solid understanding of guitar music theory and fretboard intervals.
What are the specific notes that make up the Ab 13(#11) chord?
The Ab 13(#11) chord is composed of seven notes: Ab (Root), C (Major Third), Eb (Perfect Fifth), Gb (Minor Seventh), Bb (Major Ninth), D (Augmented Fourth or #11), and F (Major Thirteenth).
What do the '13' and '#11' symbols signify in the Ab 13(#11) chord notation?
In the Ab 13(#11) chord notation, '13' indicates the inclusion of a Major Thirteenth interval, which is the sixth note of the scale above the octave. The '#11' signifies an Augmented Fourth, which is a specific altered extension that gives the chord its unique color.
Is the Ab 13(#11) a dominant chord, and what does that mean for its use?
Yes, the Ab 13(#11) chord belongs to the family of Dominant Chords. This means it typically includes a minor seventh interval (Gb) that creates tension, often leading to a resolution. As a dominant chord, it frequently appears in jazz chord progressions.
Why is the #11 interval also referred to as an Augmented Fourth?
The #11 interval is referred to as an Augmented Fourth because they represent the same pitch relative to the root. In the context of intervals, an augmented fourth is the same as a sharp eleventh when discussing chord extensions, both describing a specific interval quality.
In what musical styles is the Ab 13(#11) chord typically used?
The Ab 13(#11) chord is an advanced chord primarily found in jazz and progressive musical styles. Its rich and sophisticated sound makes it suitable for genres that utilize complex harmony and extended chord voicings.
What foundational music theory knowledge is recommended before learning the Ab 13(#11) chord?
Before attempting to learn the Ab 13(#11) chord, it is recommended to have a solid understanding of general guitar music theory, including how chords are constructed, and a good grasp of fretboard intervals. This chord is not suitable for beginners.