The V⁷ Chord

Of all the 7^th chords, the most widely used is the dominant 7^th chord. There are two ways of thinking about its structure:

1. It is a major triad with a minor 7^th (above the root) added. This is why it is also called a major-minor seventh chord.

2. It has the interval structure:

m3 (minor 3^rd)

m3 (minor 3^rd)

M3 (major 3^rd)

It is called the dominant seventh because it is usually built off the dominant (5^th) of the key. Therefore, it is labeled V⁷. Like other V chords, it retains its major quality in the minor mode. This means that the third of the V⁷ chord must be raised a half step. In the example below, the V⁷ in both versions is a major-minor seventh chord. In the A minor mode (on the right), the chord reflects the adjustment of the 3^rd being raised a half step (G natural raised to G sharp).

Use this link to download an exercise sheet to practice writing V⁷ chords in different major and minor keys:

V7 Exercises