The major seventh sharp fifth chord replaces the perfect fifth of maj7 with an augmented fifth (1-3-♯5-7). It blends major-seventh brightness with the restless shimmer of an augmented triad interior—useful in jazz, fusion, and film scoring when a major center needs a “lifted” fifth that wants to resolve by semitone.
Construction
Formula: 1-3-♯5-7. In Cmaj7(♯5), spell C-E-G♯-B (readability may use enharmonic equivalents).
Usage
Color on I or IV, passing chords between clearer major voicings, and altered lines derived from whole-tone or augmented scales.
Examples
- Fusion keyboard voicings
- Film scoring for luminous unease
- Jazz reharmonizations on major pedals
Play
Keep the major seventh clear; avoid doubling ♯5 in dense registers.
Ear-training cues
Major seventh sound with a widened fifth.
