The C-flat dominant thirteenth chord is a highly expressive and harmonically rich chord consisting of the notes C♭, E♭, G♭, B𝄫, D♭, F♭, and A♭. By extending the dominant eleventh chord with the thirteenth (A♭), this chord creates a lush, layered sound that combines tension, color, and resolution in a single harmonic structure. The C-flat dominant thirteenth chord is often employed in jazz, fusion, and contemporary music to add sophistication, emotional depth, and dynamic movement to chord progressions, offering musicians a versatile tool for creating complex and engaging harmonic textures.
Name: C-flat dominant thirteenth chord
Notes: C♭, E♭, G♭, B𝄫, D♭, F♭, A♭
Intervals: 1, 3, 5, ♭7, 9, 11, 13
Chord symbol: C♭13
Type: Heptad (seven-note chord)
C-flat dominant thirteenth chord on the Staff
C-flat dominant thirteenth chord on Piano
C-flat dominant thirteenth chord on Guitar
C-flat dominant thirteenth 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.