D#maj7(#5) Guitar Chord | How To Create and Play the D# Major Seventh Sharp Fifth chord
Welcome to our tutorial on the intriguing and unique D# maj7(#5) chord. This chord belongs to the family of Augmented Chords and is composed of the notes D#, F##, A##, and C##. The intervals that build this chord are 1, 3, #5, and 7, also known as the Root, Major Third, Augmented Fifth, and Major Seventh respectively. This chord offers a rich, complex sound that can add a touch of sophistication to your guitar playing.
Understanding the notation of chords and the intervals that compose them is key to mastering this chord. The D# maj7(#5) chord, in particular, involves some of the less commonly used intervals, such as the Augmented Fifth (#5), which can be challenging but rewarding to learn.
As part of the Augmented Chords family, the D# maj7(#5) chord is built by stacking intervals, a concept that you can learn more about in our tutorial on building chords. This method of constructing chords allows for a wide array of harmonic possibilities, enabling you to explore new musical landscapes.
While the D# maj7(#5) chord may seem daunting at first, with practice and understanding, it can become an integral part of your chord vocabulary. This chord is often used in jazz chord progressions, but can also be found in a variety of other musical genres. So, let's dive in and learn how to play this fascinating chord!
Notes that compose the D# maj7(#5) chord:
Chord Structure:
D# Major Seventh Sharp Fifth Guitar Chord Fingers Positions
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C maj7(#5) | D maj7(#5) | E maj7(#5) | F maj7(#5) | G maj7(#5) | A maj7(#5) | B maj7(#5) | C#maj7(#5) | D#maj7(#5) | F#maj7(#5) | G#maj7(#5) | A#maj7(#5) | Abmaj7(#5) | Bbmaj7(#5) | Dbmaj7(#5) | Ebmaj7(#5) | Gbmaj7(#5)
FAQ
What does the D# maj7(#5) chord name tell me about its structure?
The name D# maj7(#5) breaks down its structure: 'D#' is the root note. 'maj7' indicates the presence of a Major Third (3) and a Major Seventh (7) interval above the root. The '#5' specifically denotes an Augmented Fifth interval, meaning the fifth is raised by a half step. Together, these elements confirm the chord's full intervallic composition as 1 (Root), 3 (Major Third), #5 (Augmented Fifth), and 7 (Major Seventh).
Why does the D# maj7(#5) chord contain notes like F##, A##, and C##?
The use of double sharps (##) like F##, A##, and C## in the D# maj7(#5) chord is essential for correct theoretical spelling. This notation accurately represents the chord's intervals as a Major Third, Augmented Fifth, and Major Seventh above the D# root. Using double sharps maintains the correct intervallic distances and clarifies the chord's unique structure, adhering to standard music theory practices for describing these less common intervals.
If only the fifth is augmented, why is D# maj7(#5) considered part of the 'Augmented Chords family'?
The D# maj7(#5) chord is classified within the 'Augmented Chords family' because of the prominent inclusion of the Augmented Fifth (#5) interval. Although the other intervals (root, major third, major seventh) are not augmented, the #5 is a defining characteristic that contributes significantly to the chord's 'rich, complex sound' and places it in this group of chords that incorporate augmented qualities.
How does the Augmented Fifth (#5) interval influence the sound of the D# maj7(#5) chord?
The Augmented Fifth (#5) interval is crucial to the D# maj7(#5) chord's distinctive sound. It introduces a unique tension and a 'rich, complex' quality that stands apart from standard major chords. This specific interval creates a sense of forward motion and sophistication, making the chord an intriguing choice for adding harmonic depth and unexpected flavor to your playing.
When would a guitarist typically use a D# maj7(#5) chord in their music?
The D# maj7(#5) chord, with its sophisticated and complex sound, is 'often used in jazz chord progressions.' Its unique harmonic qualities make it suitable for adding tension, color, and a refined feel in jazz music. Beyond jazz, it can also be incorporated into 'a variety of other musical genres' whenever a guitarist wants to introduce an unexpected, rich, or advanced harmonic texture.