: In jazz, a "C major" triad is rarely enough. The basic unit is the 7th chord (maj7, m7, 7, m7b5).
: Building chords in intervals of 4ths rather than 3rds. This creates an open, ambiguous sound popularized by McCoy Tyner and Bill Evans. 4. Reharmonization and Voice Leading
: Good jazz harmony prioritizes how individual voices (notes) within the chord move. Chromatic "inner lines" can make even the most complex changes sound logical and melodic. An Approach to Jazz Harmony
At its heart, jazz harmony evolved from the Western tonal system but added "extensions" to every chord.
💡 : Jazz harmony is a balance of tension (dissonance) and release (consonance) , achieved through the strategic use of extensions and smooth voice leading. : In jazz, a "C major" triad is rarely enough
: Dominant chords are often "seasoned" with b9, #9, #11, or b13. These create maximum dissonance that makes the eventual resolution feel more satisfying.
Once the basic 7th chords are established, jazz musicians add "tension" to create more sophisticated textures. This creates an open, ambiguous sound popularized by
Professional jazz harmony is rarely played exactly as written on a lead sheet.