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An extended chord is a chord that contains notes beyond the seventh, typically by adding the ninth, eleventh or thirteenth. These additional notes create a richer and more colorful harmonic sound.
What is an extended chord?
Extended chords are built by stacking additional thirds above a seventh chord. Common examples include Cmaj9, C9, C11 and C13. These chords are widely used in jazz, soul, gospel, R&B and contemporary pop music.
Although extended chords may contain five or more different notes, piano players often omit certain notes—most commonly the fifth—to create practical and well-balanced voicings.
How are extended chords used in piano playing?
Extended chords add color, tension and sophistication to chord progressions. Piano players frequently spread the notes between both hands or simplify the voicing to make the chord easier to play while preserving its harmonic function.
Learning extended chords helps pianists create richer accompaniments and more expressive harmonic textures.