11th chord study

[ricoche]

Hi there,

I am working with some 11th chords in jazz and have a couple of general style questions. ( Not sure which video discusses 11th and 13th chords ).

1. Which tones are "usually" dropped when forming an 11th chord? I've heard the 9th is mostly dropped, but I have also heard the 3rd is dropped sometimes thus creating an sus4 chord.

2. What inversion is commonly used to "initially" approach the 11th chord? Again I've heard the 2nd inversion, but am not sure.

I understand we all need or should know all inversions and tone variations, but I am trying to find a good "practice" starting point and then experiment from there.

Thanks!

Jim

[wmyette]

Hey Jim,

I talk about 11ths on the Piano Chords (DVD701-703).

The 11th usually replaces the 3rd on Dominant 7th chords and is usually added to minor 7th chords and Major 7th chords.

However, when adding to the Maj 7th, it is usually a #11.

Reason for this is that you want to avoid minor 9th intervals between your chord tones and tensions, so b3 and 11 is ok, but 3 and 11 is not.

[ricoche]

Thanks Willie! That sums it up well.

Jim