The B-flat half-diminished seventh chord (B♭ø7) is a four-note chord consisting of the notes B♭, D♭, F♭, and A♭. It is constructed by stacking a diminished triad (B♭, D♭, F♭) with a minor seventh (A♭), resulting in a chord that has a tense, unresolved, yet subtly rich quality. This chord is commonly used in jazz, classical, and contemporary music to create smooth voice leading, add harmonic color, and introduce gentle tension within progressions. The B-flat half-diminished seventh chord often functions as a iiø7 chord in minor keys or as a passing chord, providing expressive depth and a sophisticated tonal palette that enhances the emotional and harmonic complexity of a piece.
Name: B-flat half-diminished seventh chord
Symnonyms:: B-flat half-diminished chord, B-flat minor seventh flat five chord
Notes: B♭, D♭, F♭, A♭
Intervals: 1, ♭3, ♭5, ♭7
Chord symbol: B♭m7(♭5)
Alternative symbols: B♭ø, B♭ø7, B♭m7♭5, B♭–7(♭5), B♭mi7(♭5), B♭min7(♭5)
Type: Tetrad (four-note chord)
B-flat half-diminished seventh chord on the Staff
B-flat half-diminished seventh chord on Piano
B-flat half-diminished seventh chord on Guitar
B-flat half-diminished seventh chord on Ukulele
Rowan Ellis is a musician and educator with a passion for exploring the language of harmony and melody. With years of experience across classical, jazz, and contemporary styles, Rowan breaks down music theory into clear, practical insights. His goal is to make chords and scales less intimidating and more inspiring for every musician.