Scales over a Cmaj7 chord.
Playing over a Cmaj7 chord allows for a variety of scales to be used, each offering a different flavor or color to the improvisation or melody. Here are several scales commonly played over a Cmaj7 chord, along with their notes:
C Major Scale (Ionian Mode)
- Notes: C, D, E, F, G, A, B
- This is the most natural choice over a Cmaj7 chord, providing a very consonant and stable sound.
C Lydian Mode
- Notes: C, D, E, F#, G, A, B
- The Lydian mode is similar to the major scale but with a raised fourth (F# in this case). It offers a brighter sound, ideal for creating a sense of uplift or suspension.
C Major Pentatonic Scale
- Notes: C, D, E, G, A
- This scale omits the fourth and seventh degrees of the major scale, providing a simpler, folk-like sound with no risk of dissonance over the Cmaj7 chord.
A Minor Pentatonic Scale
- Notes: A, C, D, E, G
- Although it's based on A minor, this pentatonic scale works well over a Cmaj7 chord due to its notes being part of the C major scale. It gives a smooth, bluesy feel.
C Melodic Minor Scale (Ascending)
- Notes: C, D, Eb, F, G, A, B
- While traditionally associated with minor chords, the melodic minor scale can also be played over major 7 chords, especially in jazz, to introduce a bit of tension and release due to the minor third.
B Lydian #5 Scale
- Notes: B, C#, D#, E#, Fx (F double sharp, which is G), G#, A#
- This choice might seem unconventional, as it's derived from the fifth mode of the E melodic minor scale. It works over a Cmaj7 chord by offering a #11 (F#) and a #5 (G) without clashing with the natural 7 (B) of the chord.
D Dorian Mode
- Notes: D, E, F, G, A, B, C
- While Dorian is typically used over minor chords, using D Dorian over a Cmaj7 chord can introduce interesting textures because it shares many notes with the C major scale but centers around a different tonal center, creating a modal interchange effect.
When choosing a scale to play over a Cmaj7 chord, consider the musical context, the desired mood, and the overall harmony of the piece. Experimenting with different scales and modes can lead to unique and expressive improvisations.