Can You Omit the Fifth in a Seventh Chord?

Yes, you can omit the fifth in a seventh chord. A seventh chord consists of four notes: the root, third, fifth, and seventh. Omitting the fifth does not fundamentally change the quality of the chord and can often result in a clearer sound, particularly in certain voicings or arrangements.

Common Usage in Music Styles

This practice is commonly done in jazz and contemporary music, where the third and seventh are more critical for defining the chord quality. For example, in a C7 chord (C E G Bb), you could play just C E and Bb. This technique allows for more flexible harmonic voices and can enhance the overall sound of the music.

Classic Four Part Voicing and Note Duplication Rules

In classic four part voicing, the third is a big no-no and is seldom duplicated. The seventh can be duplicated, but it is always advised to duplicate the root first. An exception to this rule is the 'non-complete dominant chord,' which is a dominant seventh with the root omitted. In this case, the seventh or fifth can be duplicated, but the third should be avoided.

Role of the 7th Tone in Chord Tension

The 7th creates tension against the triad or parts of the triad. Dropping the fifth is less of an issue as long as the root is covered. For example, as a bassist, you should cover the root and the fifth. Other players can experiment with voicings that omit the fifth, provided the chord sounds good.

Experimentation and Considerations

When considering whether to omit the fifth, you should focus on the gap between the third and seventh tones. If the chord sounds good without the fifth, you can omit it. However, if the absence of the fifth makes the chord sound thin, it might be better to keep it. Typically, the fifth can be omitted because it is one of the perfect tones (1, 4, 5, and 8th tones), which have less tonal zing but serve as support structures.

The major tones (2, 3, 6, and 7th tones) are the ones that bring brightness and action to the chords. Experiment to find the right balance and sound that works best for your music.

Conclusion

While omitting the fifth in a seventh chord is a viable option, it is crucial to experiment and consider the specific context of your music. Balancing the chord's quality and the clarity of its voicing will lead to the best results. Whether you are a bassist or another musician, remember that the ultimate goal is to enhance the overall sound and harmonic structure of your piece.