Table of Available Tensions (Major Key)

Seventh Chord Available Tension

Imaj7 9, 13

II -7 9, 11

III – 7 11

IVmaj7 9, #11, 13

V7 9, 13

VI – 7 9, 11

VII – 7b5 11, b13

• Tensions are extensions of a basic chord in a particular Major Key. They

add color, richness, and complexity to a chord.
• Available tensions sound musically acceptable when added to a chord
voicing.
• Harmonic avoid notes sound harsh, dissonant or confusing when added to
a chord voicing.