Major Seventh
Definition & Properties
The major seventh creates tense leading-tone tension just one half step below the octave. It gives major seventh chords their dreamy, sophisticated sound while strongly pulling toward resolution.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Abbreviation | M7 |
| Semitones | 11 |
| Quality | Major |
| Just Ratio | 15:8 |
| Cents from Equal | -11.73 |
| Harmonic Character | leading tone tension |
Ear Training Reference
The Major Seventh (M7) is commonly recognized by the ascending motion of: Take On Me; Bali Ha'i.
Practice direction: ascending — sing from the lower note up by 11 semitones.
Note Pair Examples
| Note 1 | Note 2 | Interval | Semitones |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | B | Major Seventh | 11 |
| G | F# | Major Seventh | 11 |
| D | C# | Major Seventh | 11 |
| F | E | Major Seventh | 11 |
Intonation by Temperament
The Major Seventh measures 15:8 in just intonation (-11.73 cents from equal temperament). This deviation affects ensemble tuning and instrument voicing.
| Temperament | C4 (Hz) | B4 (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| Equal Temperament | 261.626 | 493.883 |
| Pythagorean | 260.740 | 495.000 |
| Just Intonation | 261.626 | 490.548 |
Instrument Tuning Context
The Major Seventh (11 semitones) appears in chord voicings where intonation precision matters for blend. Equal vs. just tuning difference: 11.73 cents.
Chords & Scales Containing This Interval
Chords
These chord types contain the Major Seventh as a characteristic interval:
Scales
These scales include the Major Seventh as a structural interval: