What is a Major Seventh?

A major seventh is a musical interval that represents the distance between two notes that are eleven semitones apart. In Western music theory, this interval occurs when the second note is seven letter names higher than the first. For example, the distance between the notes C and B forms a major seventh.

The major seventh interval has a distinctive sound that is often described as bright, tense, and expressive. Because the two notes are very close to forming an octave, the interval creates a strong sense of tension that often feels like it wants to resolve. This quality makes it useful for adding emotional color and complexity to music.

Major sevenths are commonly used in jazz, pop, and modern harmony, especially in major seventh chords. For example, a Cmaj7 chord contains the notes C, E, G, and B, with the interval between C and B forming a major seventh. This interval adds a smooth and sophisticated character to chords and melodies across many musical styles.