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Chord Extensions Explained – What do those numbers mean? From the Essential Theory Course

Description

In this video, you’ll learn how chord extensions work and what those chord numbers mean. Hint: It’s all tied to the major scale.

This video is one unit from the new “Essential Theory” Course – Essential Theory takes you from knowing the note names on your guitar, to how chords are constructed, all the way up to understanding Modes. You can access the Essential Theory Course here.

From the "Essential Theory" Course

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Comments

    • Eddie Mac says

      This is really great info. I’ve played some of these chords over the years but never fully understood them – and I could never have figured out how to create them. I look forward to learning more. I am also excited about the other chapters you mentioned such as finger style, leads etc.

  4. Tom Horock says

    I used to look forward to Friday’s to see what the new “stand alone” composition would sound like. Every week for the last months on end you get further away from why I joined your site as a “premium “ member…. You were a no B.S. down to earth good instructor as to how to play straight forward and fun blues guitar. There are plenty of people online that like to show me how much they know and how little knowledge I have of music and the guitar. You were the only person out there that did what you did , and how you did it, was exceptional. I picked up the guitar after 48 years of work and I learned more from your blues course and weekly lessons than I could have imagined. My interest in music theory is zilch…..I guess that’s why I joined your site, there was very little theory and just fun music. I have been a member of the sight going on two years and I have enjoyed it. I find my interest waning in recent weeks and wishing that “ ACTIVE MELODY “ learn blues guitar had not evolved into “ACTIVE MELODY “ learn music theory…. Just my observation……

    • Ralph P. says

      I think the majority of AM Members want to know WHY Brian plays as well as he does. That, unfortunately for some, requires some amount of music theory. Some players are content to play the Pentatonic Minor their whole life, but if you want to actually know how to play guitar well that’s going to take some work and theory. It’s not the fun stuff. If you don’t want to get into the theory side of playing, there are several hundred “fun songs” to play on AM. I welcome Brian’s effort he’s put into his Theory Lessons, and I’m sure most of his serious students welcome and appreciate it.

      Just my observation…

      Keep up the good work Brian,
      Ralph P.

      • FergalT says

        I agree – the majority want to know the why. This is a great course.
        I was going to say you can’t please all the people all the time…BUT with AM you audit can because you don’t need to like every lesson there are so many of them!!!

        Also this course is presented in such a way to add and help you understand what and why things work…. its not presented as rocket science…I wouldn’t be so quick to dismiss theory… give it a chance

      • Tom Horock says

        Brian plays as well as he does because he has practiced and played for many, many years. He also has plenty of theory under his belt. He has made it his profession to do so…. What makes you think I am not a serious person? Just because I’m never going to be a professional musician like you “ Serious Students “ , don’t judge me. I never knew music was not supposed to be fun. In my younger days I played bass in several big bands. Just read gigs for older audiences. Sometimes those people tried to make music no fun, but I still made it fun for me! I knew I would be attacked for my honest opinion…. I guess in this day and age it is becoming apparent that you are not to have your own opinion…. I never said Brian was not a good instructor, I think he’s great at what he does and am almost glad I’m still a “ Premium Member “.

        Seriously,

        TOM

      • John R says

        Brian I echo Ralph’s sentiments.
        Also:
        1. Don’t take to heart some people’s personal attacks in these comments. In most cases they are simply not interested in theory and so want to stick with song lessons.
        2. I am another who is not interested in plunging deep into theory. Nor will I sit there and spend time figuring out exactly what strings/frets need to be played.
        However, your lesson is like a smorgasborg. I, like others, can sample the goodies and see which I like and go away when I’ve had enough.
        For me, the intro lesson overcame my deep fear of “GMA9 diminished” realizing that this IS an attainable language and here is the pathway if you care to take it.
        I’ll nibble enough to satisfy my hunger and then plunge back into learning the blues. AND wait, in anticipation for the Fingerstyle course.

    • JohnStrat says

      Tom, Brian needs to have this information available on the site to complete the whole aspect. It is extremely useful for a great many people including me and I have been here 7 years.. I like you love those play a tune lessons, especially when they are in the style of one of my preferred artists. It is also like you why i joined up. But as Ralph points out there are vast numbers of such tunes and if you have been here 2 years you are very unlikely to have mastered them all so why not bite the bullet on one you found a little tricky and push yourself that way till the next lesson you like comes along I am sure it wont be long. There are bound to be some weeks when we feel less interested in the content wherever we go and sometimes we do get a run of them but Brian always seems to come up with a beauty just at the right moment so fingers crossed. That has been my experience here.
      JohnStrat

    • madams says

      I appreciate Tom’s honesty. I also miss the lessons that taught us full songs like Muddy Waters 1 and 2, or EP127, etc. These are my favorites and I keep going back to them. I also think they have the most “Favorites” which would indicate others love these as well.

      Brian, perhaps you can add back in some full blues songs to swing the pendulum back toward the middle.

      Michael

    • Bobs Ultra-339 Electric Guitar Level 2 Vintage Sun says

      If you have only been a member 2 years , I would suggest you check out the 6 or so years of lessons before you joined .if you don’t want to do the theory . There are so many absolutely great lessons I have never been able to find time to explore .
      You are probably faster than I , but if he never posted a lesson I’m sure it would take a long time cover what I have missed. Scales are not as much fun , but they are necessary.

    • Glenn W says

      For me there is just the right amount of theory on this site. What I’ve discovered in recent years is that just knowing a little bit of theory behind whatever notes you’re playing helps in playing a specific piece and also understanding other pieces and improvising. Brian has been responsible for more lightbulb moments for me than any other on-line instructor. I won’t be following the course myself but providing a mapped out structure for those that do need to improve their theory seems like a good idea to me.

    • alasdair L says

      I think the big problem this week is the title Chord Extensions Explained – What do those numbers mean – which is a really dull way to headline what appears to be a totally revamped course. Having watched the lesson it seems that the course is going to be really useful. And it’s nice to see a teacher with such an ability to self-criticise. Keep it up, Brian, and don’t be so hard on your old self, Without your old self we wouldn’t have the great teacher we have today. Oh, and while I’m on, yet again can I ask for vibrato signs on the tabs, please.

    • Paul G says

      Plenty of other lessons in Brian’s categories. It will take you a lifetime to learn them.Im 67 and I want to learn about theory , what a dominant 7 is etc the best lessons going.He is a great teacher .

    • Darren F says

      I disagree. I think Brian makes all this crucial information very accessible and that’s because he’s a very experienced excellent teacher. If you really want to progress on guitar you need to eat the vegetables too. In this one lesson alone I have progressed massively and it’s gold. Thanks Brian. Keep em coming!

    • Don D. says

      Hi Tom, I don’t think we’ve ever chatted before, but I want to suggest turning to some of the older lessons. I’ve been following Brian for years and there are still many old lessons I’d like to work on.

    • Scott N says

      I suspect having this course available will be great for those lessons that you love Tom. That is because now, during a lesson with a blues song, he won’t need to get bogged down repeating theory that students may or may not already know. Now he can just reference the appropriate course and students that need/want it can go there. Students like your self can skip it. A win-win.

      • Tom Horock says

        I have learned my fill of scales etc, etc…. I completed the blues course 90 %… also the Hendricks course…I’m 69 years young so my growth as a musician is well limited by arthritis in the fingers, memory loss…. So I’m not really flying blind …. I’m just never gonna have 20/20 vision as a guitar player.

    • sunjamr says

      So…..you’ve already learned all the 400 existing weekly lessons and anxiously wait for a new one to come out each week? And you don’t want to learn any theory because you don’t have time for such nonsense? Dude, you must be an amazing guitar player!

    • Neil T says

      I guess if you’re a premium member and don’t like this small diversion into music theory, you can just concentrate on the rest of the lessons on the site. How many hundreds of hours are there to choose from? If you have mastered them all, well done. One Friday allocated to plugging a course that you get for free as a premium member shouldn’t ruin your experience. But the tone of your messages would seem to suggest otherwise. Best of luck!

    • David J says

      Ok I feel you but by the same token I have been studying guitar since I was 8. First let me give a little background. I began only looking at books in music stores learned tuning and bought a pitch pipeplus all the major and minor chords 1st pos but later I took lessons from an awesome jazz player not much of a teacher he talked about these things but couldn’t explain so Brian’s explanation of theory has finally cleared things I knew I feel that just learning but no theory really doesnt help to advance beyond where you are now I’m just giving my opinion and how this affects me I’m quite sure after the theory he will move back to his same type of lessons good luck

  14. Cardo says

    Good stuff! I know most of this stuff but I like having it organized in a sequential framework so I can jump in and refresh on concepts I’m fuzzy on. Brian has a ton of “fun” content on the site to work on and not every lesson speaks to me in terms of genre or playing style (I don’t do much fingerstyle), but I can always find something that motivates me to play and that’s worth the very reasonable price. I also take to heart his approach that although his compositions are fun to learn that what he’s really striving to do is teach us how to improvise and create our own music.

    • Raymond P says

      Hi Brian,

      I’ve been studying this wonderful new course and was wondering if you could create pdf’s of fretboards showing the 9th, 11th and 13th chord fingering. Although I found your explanation very helpful I’ve also found in the past that your fretboard pdf’s are very helpful for both visualizing, practicing and memorizing chord positions.

      As always, thank you for all your hard work.

      Ray P

  17. Tom D says

    If you want to play solos using chords or you want to play jazz guitar you must learn music theory. In constructing a chordal solo the melody note is the highest note in the chord, that means you have to add it to the backing chord. Without the theory you’re in trouble. I think it’s great you are including the theory lessons in your course. Of cause chord construction is only part of the theory. I have a good Australian book by Don Andrews, my old guitar teacher called “Constructing Chordal Solos”. It shows you how to construct 4 chords on the top 4 strings, 4 chords on the middle 4 strings and 4 chords on the bottom 4 strings (all inversions of the same chord). So I understand your teaching method. Thanks again Brian.

  18. Norbert says

    Just a copy from my comment re. lesson 408 😉

    “Brian, as quite often before: instructive, entertaining, to the point!

    Your pracise-relevant theory-lessons are one of the bests I´ve ever seen.
    What do you think: wouldn´t a lesson on modulation (transitions to different keys) fits very well to the “circle-lesson”?

    All the best

    Norbert”

  19. JoLa says

    You have a great gift of explaining/simplifying tricky concepts, Brian, and I like the way you demonstrate the practical use of the theory on the guitar so it’s not just book knowledge. Good idea to link the relevant lessons, now we have it all in one place for quick reference and a well organized resource!
    I think players who refuse to learn basic music theory are missing out a lot!

  20. Enrico says

    Loved this. Didn’t know that to build a 9, 11 chord etc you need to keep the 7 in there. Apart from that I’ll apply this for sure rather then memorizing chord shapes (which I tend to forget very easily). I think is a good way to also learn the major scale notes around the neck and know which notes you’re playing.

    Thanks Brian! Looking forward to the lead and fingerpicking courses too.

  21. Martyn in France says

    This is an outstanding extra element to the already best guitar learning site on the internet, one that creates a clear understanding of the ‘why’ to compliment the ‘how’. Congratulations Brian, it is clearly a lot of work on your part and one that is very much appreciated. Thank you.
    Martyn

  22. Bill B says

    I am so excited about this, Brian and cannot wait to dive in! I have struggled with connecting the dots of theory from an application standpoint for a long time now. I know that whatever new material you have made is going to be top notch. Thanks so much for everything you do at AM.

  23. charjo says

    Congratulations on your Essential Theory Course, Brian. Despite some criticism above, I can see the the incredible progress among the members. Yours is the only website I’ve seen that truly teaches the elements of improvisation. Adding a basic theory background can only be a plus. Would you consider adding a section on intervals. One way to understand chord construction, improvisation and modes is to see the intervals in the vicinity you are playing in. Your continuing inspiration is appreciated.
    John

  25. Anita B says

    Wonderful idea! Just what I need. I’ve been working on your songs for a while now and this is just perfect timing. It’s starting to fit together light bulb are going off thanks so much for your hard work

  26. james w says

    I have to say a light bulb went off this morning for me . This is great , i am can see a need for me to get out of my own box and get a lot more familiar with the fret board notes and how chords are formed from the major scales. I can’t wait to dig into more guitar theory from this new lesson. Thumbs up for this . Thanks

  27. Carl D says

    Thank you for this Course Brian… I am 82 years old and have been trying to learn Guitar for a couple of years… have shyed away from any type of theory mainly because of memory… However, I know that I am missing out on a lot because of it….its’ an uphill climb for me and maybe for others as well….But, as always, your excellent approach to teaching and helping others is Great, no matter what Lesson you present … I Welcome this Course and looking forward to learning as much as I can…. Thank you again for all you do…. I know it is a lot of work on your part to provide lessons for everyone’s taste….. But I am sure your entire membership appreciates your help and dedication….

  31. Dominique B says

    I do understand that somepeople can get really frustrated when it comes to theory..I am a musician,and Ihave known all that theory since I was 12 years of age, as I was fortunate to have parents who sent me to the Conservatoire to learn music at night after school.(that is tne way we learn music in France)

    I found it rrrreally boring when I was a kid..Yet I must say that now I find it very rewarding .

    So keep it up,Brian, your explanations were very clear , you have made it simple for beginners to understand. Of course I alsolike a lesson with a nice melody to work on.I am an experienced musician(French horn player), and a very poor guitar player who has been improving thanks to your lessons
    Thank you

    Dominique (DOM)

  32. Charles S says

    Thanks Brian. You have 10 years of gold nuggets and I’ve attempted to squirrel them in my favorites column and also working the lesson plans. Your idea of the new courses and updating them is the bomb. Just what I needed. I was toying with the idea of adding enrollment with another on-line course to put me on a regimen. I admit that seeing your new lesson every week sometimes gets me side tracked too. Your new plan saves me the enrollment fee of another course. I know you can’t teach copy written songs and riffs on your site. But maybe you could reference them so we can dig them up ourselves.

    Thanks for all your knowledge and work,
    Charlie S.

  35. Jan M says

    I was 16 when I played for the first time on the guitar; played in a band for several years in the sixties.
    Now I’m 74, have had an academic musical education for seven years and am a fan of Chet Atkins’ music since 1969.
    So I can say that the guitar has given me a lot of fun but also a lot of work!
    I can only say that the lessons of Brian the best fundaments for the guitarists are!
    And yes, this Essential Theory Course is very helpful to learn the “secrets” of music.
    I love the way of combining the theory with the practical exercises of Brian’s lessons!

    Brian, I think I have spotted a few mistakes in this Theory Course: look at Module 3 – Unit 2: Major 7 Chord (3 Positions):
    a) the first G Major7 Chord: the black dots on the 2, the 3 and the 4 string must lowered 1 position to the nut.
    b) the second G Major 7 Chord: the black dots on the 1, the 2, the 3 and the 4 string must lowered 1 position to the nut.

    I have checked it with some chord books.

    Thanks Brian for all your efforts!

  36. brian b says

    I have learned so much about guitar on your site its hard to imagine. This lesson is beyond me, goes way too fast. For someone at my level I believe you could make 2, 3 or more lessons out of this one alone. But I have 400 and some lessons of yours to choose from so not to worry. Thanks for a great site!

  37. Paul S says

    Finally! Ive been playing guitar since 1964 and I’ve taken guitar and 4 years of piano lessons and NO ONE has ever put together such a thorough and well packaged explanation of how music and the guitar neck works. Even if you read music this is invaluable. That’s why I’ve been a subscriber for 7 years – instead of listening to someone telling you to “put your fingers here” Brian tells us why. And if you’re ever going to make it to the next level you have to try to know this stuff. Many thanks, Brian!

  42. John H says

    Tom-
    Brian, I am sure will go back to presenting song lessons in a variety of genres. This is a course for those it can benefit. As far as guitar playing being fun, well if you played bass in several big bands, I am sure you know that proficiency on any instrument requires work. And, work isn’t always fun. Sometimes, its frustrating, hard and humbling.

  45. Richard F says

    I tend to agree with the positive reviews. I’ve picked up some theory along the way and I like it when Brian does manage to salt in some critical theory points along with the how-to’s. One thing that has happened to my playing is that I am much more proficient at figuring out songs by listening to them. That’s a double-edged sword because I have accumulated such a long list of non-Activemelody songs that I have to find time to work on Brian’s studies & lessons. I will, however, definitely have a go at his theory lessons. Keep on a pickin’! RF

  46. Charles R says

    I have looked and seen no connection drawn to modes here. A Major 7th chord is embedded in its Major Scale (1 3 5 7 of that scale) and a Dominant 7th is embedded in its Mixolydian Scale (1 3 5 7 of the mixolydian). I am wondering if this might open up a useful perspective. For example. there is also the Diminished Chord which is the 1 3 5 7 of the Locrian ???. Anyway, I am curious where one might go with this.

  47. Peter M says

    A great way to practice this chord extension lesson can be found on Ultimate Tabs. Search for the Frank Sinatra version of ‘One For My Baby’. The song has all the chord extensions (and more!) you mentioned in your ‘essentials ‘ lesson.

  48. obie123 says

    Hey this is great, been taking your lessons for awhile and seem to learn something on every one but …my brain tends to scatter the guitar wisdom and forget a lot of it so tks for this new course approach

  49. glen s says

    Thanks Brian…. I have been trying to get a grasp of theory for quite some time….I could never understand how it all fits together . Until now. In this video clip you have really explained it in terms that I can finally understand and comprehend, whatever it is … I’m going into full emersion with this one.
    mahalos and aloha,Glen

  50. Michael B says

    I understand why Brian is doing the theory, its just i have only been playing a year and still find it a bit overwhelming. Things like why the scales have strange names, scale positions and their relationship to the notes on the guitar.

    I think i will have to find a site that is for the more beginner stage and come back in a few years.

    Cheers

    Michael

  51. swampy says

    Thanks Brian for all your effort putting a theory course together for Premium members. Sometimes it’s interesting to do a bit of theory when the fingers aren’t up to a long session.
    Best Wishes,
    Greg

  52. Ron F says

    To: Ralph P.

    Ralph, get over it, Buddy. Brian is still a fabulous instructor and extremely knowledgable. I’m sure your learning curve has been steep and rewarding. If he has to insert a theory lesson occasionally, just take the week off and work on the last lesson. There are many members out there that appreciate clarity of theory to add to our depth of understanding on why certain things are done. So, if you actually listened, it would improve your playing more. You have an incredible resource here. Enjoy it and learn. If you just want riffs, without any understanding, maybe Brian will give you private lessons on zoom. Appreciate this opportunity. You might realize that it even improves you more. All the best, Have fun. Ron

  54. Keith S says

    I do enjoy getting into the “weeds” on how music works; not just the how. I’ve found if I know the “why” the “how” is easier. I’ve tried to piece together a theory course from Brian’s weekly lesson and so glad he’s got it captured in one place now. Continue to check each weekly lesson and also starting the new theory course. Thanks! Brian.

  55. nostril says

    Thanks Brian
    Adding new courses and reworking the old courses is great. Who wants to always play someone else’s music or get stuck in 1 4 5 land. Not me I want to break out & throw in some Jazz cords occasionally mix it up a little. So glad to see your web site growing in the positive direction.

  57. Neal S says

    Thank you Brian….. I dont read the comment section much, but I’ve noticed a lot of comments about to much theory. I cant keep up with a lot of it, but I also realize the fact that I’m doing it to try and keep my brain as sharp as I can. I pick and choose what I like out of the Blues lessons and enjoy myself, and the lessons I can handle. I think you’re doing a great great job. Either way i’m going to keep at it.

  59. Jim L says

    HI Brian. Lesson told all that was promised but I had hoped that it would tell me how to name chords outside of this lesson. I’m thinking of the cowboy C chord with the added G on the high E string. Counting intervals I come up with a C12 but your lesson said there’s only 7, 9, 11, and 13. When I construct a songsheet with lyrics that is in the key of C and uses both the Cowboy chord and the C with the added G, how do I refer to that version of C. Thanks.

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