3-7 Harmony Explained

Key Concepts

3-7 Harmony refers to the use of triads (three-note chords) and seventh chords (four-note chords) in music. Understanding these harmonic structures is crucial for creating rich and complex musical textures. In Grade 4, students should focus on identifying and applying these chords to enhance their musical compositions and performances.

1. Triads

Triads are the most basic form of harmony, consisting of three notes stacked in thirds. There are four types of triads:

• Major Triad: Consists of a root note, a major third above the root, and a perfect fifth above the root.
• Minor Triad: Consists of a root note, a minor third above the root, and a perfect fifth above the root.
• Augmented Triad: Consists of a root note, a major third above the root, and an augmented fifth above the root.
• Diminished Triad: Consists of a root note, a minor third above the root, and a diminished fifth above the root.

Example: In the key of C major, the C major triad consists of the notes C, E, and G.

2. Seventh Chords

Seventh chords add an additional note to the triad, creating a four-note chord. There are several types of seventh chords:

• Major Seventh: Consists of a major triad with an added major seventh above the root.
• Minor Seventh: Consists of a minor triad with an added minor seventh above the root.
• Dominant Seventh: Consists of a major triad with an added minor seventh above the root.
• Half-Diminished Seventh: Consists of a diminished triad with an added minor seventh above the root.

Example: In the key of C major, the C major seventh chord consists of the notes C, E, G, and B.

Examples and Analogies

Think of triads as the building blocks of a house. Each block (note) is carefully placed to create a stable structure. Adding a seventh to a triad is like adding a roof to the house, providing additional support and complexity.

Another analogy is to imagine triads as basic colors (red, blue, yellow) and seventh chords as mixed colors (purple, green, orange). Just as mixing colors creates new and vibrant hues, adding a seventh to a triad creates richer and more complex harmonies.

Practical Application

To practice 3-7 Harmony, start by identifying and playing triads in different keys. Gradually add the seventh note to create seventh chords. Practice playing these chords in various progressions to understand how they function in music. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of harmonic structures and enhance your musical compositions.