9th, 11th, and 13th chords
What 9th, 11th, and 13th chords means in Music A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definition of 9th, 11th, and 13th chords
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain 9th, 11th, and 13th chords in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Continuing the pattern of stacked thirds yields these chords, each additional third introducing new dissonances and harmonic complexity.
Topics that use 9th, 11th, and 13th chords
- Area of study 3: Music for media - Musical elements (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Action and drive
- added 6th
- Character development
- Chord extensions
- Chord nomenclature
- Cross-cultural orchestration
- Cross-rhythm
- Cue
Using 9th, 11th, and 13th chords in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Music questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge