Definition: A seventh is an interval spanning seven degrees on the diatonic scale. Common sevenths include:
◊ In the C major diatonic scale, B is the seventh:
C - D - E - F - G - A - B
◊ Likewise, the M7 in a C major seventh chord is also B:
C - E - G - B
◊ A C dominant seventh chord has the same notes, but with a m7:
C - E - G - B♭
See more on building seventh chords.
- Major seventh (M7); a span of 11 semitones.
- Minor seventh (m7); 10 semitones.
- Diminished seventh (d7); 9 semitones.
Examples of Seventh Intervals in Practice
◊ In the C major diatonic scale, B is the seventh:C - D - E - F - G - A - B
◊ Likewise, the M7 in a C major seventh chord is also B:
C - E - G - B
◊ A C dominant seventh chord has the same notes, but with a m7:
C - E - G - B♭
See more on building seventh chords.
Also Known As:
- settima [maggiore / minore] (It)
- septième [majeure / mineure] (Fr)
- Septime [grosse / kleine] (Ger)
