Ab7(#5) Guitar Chord | Play, Practice & Master Interactively
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The Ab 7(#5) chord is a fascinating member of the Augmented Chords family, also known as a Dominant Seventh Sharp Fifth. It's built from the notes Ab, C, E, and Gb, which correspond to the intervals Root (1), Major Third (3), Augmented Fifth (#5), and Minor Seventh (b7). Unlock its unique sound with the interactive fretboard tool at the top of this page – visualize fingerings, hear the chord played as a strum or arpeggio, and get instant guidance on your technique using the real-time microphone feedback.
This chord adds a unique, often jazzy or bluesy flavor due to its augmented fifth, creating a sound that can feel both tense and colorful. To truly master its application, delve into its theoretical underpinnings with our guide on Chord Construction. As a form of Dominant Chord, understanding its role in harmony is crucial. Many shapes for the Ab7(#5) involve Guitar Bar Chords, so practice those techniques. Don't forget to work on smooth chord changes to integrate it seamlessly into your playing.
Below, you'll discover a comprehensive collection of chord diagrams, arranged from the most accessible open positions to more challenging barre shapes. We'll also explore the music theory behind the Ab7(#5), list common songs where it's used, and identify the keys where it naturally appears. But first, take a moment to engage with the interactive tool above: dial in your tempo with the drum tool, listen closely to the chord's distinct sound, and let the real-time mic feedback guide your fingers to perfection. This hands-on approach is the most effective way to internalize new chords quickly.
Notes of the Ab 7(#5) chord:
Tones in the Dominant Seventh Sharp Fifth chord:
Ab Dominant Seventh Sharp Fifth Guitar Chord Fingers Positions
Position 1
Movable
Position 2
Barre
Movable
Position 3
Barre
Movable
Position 4
Barre
Movable
Position 5
Barre
Movable
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FAQ
What are the specific notes that make up an Ab 7(#5) chord?
The Ab 7(#5) chord is composed of four distinct notes: Ab (the root), C (the major third), E (the augmented fifth), and Gb (the minor seventh). These notes together create its unique sound.
How do the intervals 1, 3, #5, and b7 define the Ab 7(#5) chord?
These intervals represent the relationship of each note to the root (Ab). '1' is the Root (Ab), '3' is the Major Third (C), '#5' specifically indicates an Augmented Fifth (E), and 'b7' denotes a Minor Seventh (Gb). This combination, especially the augmented fifth and minor seventh, characterizes its specific harmonic structure.
Why is the Ab 7(#5) chord considered part of the 'Augmented Chords' family?
It belongs to the Augmented Chords family because it contains an augmented fifth interval (E, instead of a perfect fifth). This augmented fifth is the defining characteristic that classifies it within this family of chords.
What musical genres commonly use the Ab 7(#5) chord?
The Ab 7(#5) chord is often employed in more advanced musical contexts, particularly within jazz and blues music. Its unique and complex sound can add depth and tension, making it suitable for these genres.
What makes the Ab 7(#5) a 'dominant' guitar chord?
The presence of the minor seventh (b7) interval, which is Gb in this specific chord, is what classifies it as a dominant 7th chord. Dominant chords inherently create a sense of tension that typically seeks resolution in musical progressions.
What's the difference between an Ab7 chord and an Ab 7(#5) chord?
The key difference lies in the fifth interval. A standard Ab7 chord contains a perfect fifth (Eb), whereas the Ab 7(#5) chord features an augmented fifth (E). This alteration from a perfect to an augmented fifth significantly changes the chord's quality and sonic character.