The C-flat half-diminished seventh chord is a tense and harmonically complex chord consisting of the notes C♭, E𝄫, G𝄫, and B𝄫. By combining a diminished triad with a minor seventh (B𝄫), this chord creates a subtle dissonance that is less resolved than a major or minor chord but not as unstable as a fully diminished seventh. The C-flat half-diminished seventh chord is often used in jazz, classical, and contemporary music to add sophistication, suspense, and nuanced emotional tension to chord progressions, making it an essential tool for composers and performers seeking rich harmonic textures.
Name: C-flat half-diminished seventh chord
Symnonyms:: C-flat half-diminished chord, C-flat minor seventh flat five chord
Notes: C♭, E𝄫, G𝄫, B𝄫
Intervals: 1, ♭3, ♭5, ♭7
Chord symbol: C♭m7(♭5)
Alternative symbols: C♭ø, C♭ø7, C♭m7♭5, C♭–7(♭5), C♭mi7(♭5), C♭min7(♭5)
Type: Tetrad (four-note chord)
C-flat half-diminished seventh chord on the Staff
C-flat half-diminished seventh chord on Piano
C-flat half-diminished seventh chord on Guitar
C-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.