How to Hear Altered Chords: A Guide for Musicians and Enthusiasts
Altered chords are an essential element in jazz, blues, and other genres of music. They add a unique flavor to a melody and can transform a simple progression into a rich, complex piece. However, many musicians find it challenging to identify and understand altered chords. In this article, we will explore how to hear altered chords and provide practical tips to help you master this crucial skill.
Understanding Altered Chords
First, let’s define what an altered chord is. An altered chord is a type of chord that includes one or more notes that are altered from their diatonic equivalents. These alterations can be sharp, flat, or both. The most common alterations are:
– Major third: +3 (sharp)
– Minor third: -3 (flat)
– Perfect fifth: +5 (sharp)
– Minor sixth: -6 (flat)
– Minor seventh: -7 (flat)
– Major seventh: +7 (sharp)
Identifying Altered Chords
To hear altered chords, you must first be able to identify them. Here are some tips to help you distinguish between altered and diatonic chords:
1. Listen to the harmony: Pay attention to the sound of the chord progression. Altered chords often sound dissonant or unresolved, which can help you identify them.
2. Analyze the melody: Look at the melody and see if any notes are chromatic (not belonging to the diatonic scale). This can indicate the presence of an altered chord.
3. Practice ear training: Improving your ear training skills will help you recognize altered chords by ear. Use exercises that focus on listening to and identifying different intervals and chords.
Practical Tips for Hearing Altered Chords
1. Familiarize yourself with altered chord voicings: Spend time learning the altered chord shapes on your instrument. This will help you become more comfortable with their sound and structure.
2. Listen to recordings: Listen to music that features altered chords, such as jazz standards or blues songs. Pay attention to how the altered chords are used and how they interact with the melody and other chords.
3. Practice improvisation: Improvising on altered chords will help you develop a better sense of their sound and how they fit into a progression. Experiment with different alterations and see how they affect the overall sound of your improvisation.
4. Study music theory: Understanding the theory behind altered chords will help you identify them and understand their role in different genres. Study chord progressions and analyze how altered chords can be used to create tension and resolution.
Conclusion
Hearing altered chords is a valuable skill for any musician. By understanding the basics of altered chords, practicing ear training, and applying practical tips, you can develop your ability to identify and utilize these unique chords in your music. With practice and dedication, you’ll be able to add a rich, expressive quality to your playing and create memorable musical experiences.
