Dbadd11

General info

Full name

Db Add11

Symbol

Dbadd11

Root

Db

Quality

Add11

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

ITonic (I)C# major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

GbGb MajorAbAb MajorBbmBb Minor

Main resolution

Dbadd11source

AbAb Major

Major chord Db is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.

Other resolutions

Dbadd11source

Deceptive resolution

BbmBb Minor

As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).

Dbadd11source

Modal resolution

BB Major

In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.

Dbadd11source

Jazz reharmonization

Dbmaj7Db Major 7

In jazz, a major chord is enriched to maj7, 6/9, or add9 and can smoothly transition into a ii-V of another key (modulation).

Dbadd11source

Functional resolution

AbAb Major

As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Features

Character

Major, with an added 11th and no 7th

Characteristic interval

Perfect 11th without 7th (add11)

Description

A perfect 11th is added to a major triad without a 7th. The 3rd and 11th form a semitone dissonance that may be featured as a cluster or separated by register.

Application

• Clustered major textures
• Pedal sonorities
• Modern popular harmony

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.