Jazz Ear Training Practice

Jazz harmony is built on complex chords, extensions, and rapid modulations. To improvise over a standard, you must be able to instantly recognize 7th chords and their alterations by ear.

The Foundation of Jazz

Before you worry about 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths, you must have absolute mastery over the core seventh chords:

Listening for the 3rd and 7th

In jazz, the root and the fifth are often omitted by the piano player. The defining character of the chord comes from the "guide tones" — the 3rd and the 7th.

When practicing chord recognition, focus on the top of the chord. Is the seventh major (dreamy) or minor (bluesy/funky)? Is the third major (bright) or minor (dark)?

How to practice

Start by configuring the chord trainer to only include Maj7, min7, and dom7. These three chords make up the II-V-I progression, which is 80% of the jazz repertoire. Once you can identify them flawlessly in random inversions, add diminished and augmented sounds.

Ready to practice?

BananaTone is a free, fast ear training app. No sign-up required — just open and start practicing.

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