C altered scale diatonic chords
C altered scale seventh chords
scale
Fretboard diagram
C altered scale — chords and intervals
Harmonizing the C altered scale produces the most tension-filled chord family in jazz. Every chord contains altered tones that demand resolution, making this the ultimate tool for dominant-function harmony. The chords of C altered are C diminished, Db minor, D# minor, E augmented, F# major, Ab major, Bb diminished. Use these chords over V7alt passages to create maximum pull toward the tonic. The altered chord family is essential for jazz reharmonization, turning simple changes into rich, chromatic voice leading. Commonly used in Jazz, Fusion, Post-Bop, Contemporary. Notable players include John Coltrane, Michael Brecker, Pat Metheny, Chick Corea.
The C altered scale has the following degrees: 1 ♭2 ♯2 3 ♯4 ♭6 ♭7.
Intervals: H-W-H-W-W-W-W.
Diatonic chords: C diminished, Db minor, D# minor, E augmented, F# major, Ab major, Bb diminished.
| Degrees | Chord |
|---|---|
| I | C diminished |
| ii | Db minor |
| iii | D# minor |
| IV | E augmented |
| V | F# major |
| vi | Ab major |
| vii° | Bb diminished |
Degree-by-Degree Analysis
The I chord (C diminished) is the tonic — the gravitational center of the key. The ii chord (Db minor) is the minor subdominant, commonly used to approach the V chord. The iii chord (D# minor) functions as a substitute for the I or vi. The IV chord (E augmented) is the subdominant — it adds motion and moderate tension. The V chord (F# major) is the dominant — it creates the strongest tension that wants to resolve to the I. The vi chord (Ab major) is the relative minor — it brings emotional color and depth. The vii° chord (Bb diminished) is the diminished — the most tense, rarely used alone, usually leading to the I.
This page focuses on the harmonic content — the chords built from each degree of the C altered scale. For fretboard patterns and fingering guides, see the scale page.
Use the interactive harmonizer above to explore triads, seventh chords, and chord voicings for composing with the C altered scale on guitar.
altered is the 7th mode of the Melodic Minor scale (Super Locrian). View C Melodic minor scale
Related Scales
How to Use This Scale
Use over 7alt, 7#9, 7b9, 7#5, 7b5 chords. The definitive scale for altered dominant chords that resolve to minor. Play C Altered over C7alt resolving to Fm.