Play the major eleventh chord on piano

The major eleventh chord (maj11 or Δ11) adds a perfect eleventh to the maj9 chord. As with the 11 chord, the third is often omitted to avoid dissonance with the eleventh.

Chord composition

IVVIIIXXI
RootPerfect fifthMajor seventhMajor ninthPerfect eleventh
07111417

Formula 1 - (3) - 5 - 7 - 9 - 11

Theory

The maj11 chord is generally played without the third. C maj11 = C-G-B-D-F. It creates an open and floating sound, used for modal passages or extended tonic chords. The fifth can also be omitted to simplify the voicing.

Play the major eleventh chord on the piano

Example of Major Eleventh chord position on piano

Styles

Jazz Fusion Modal Jazz Contemporary