C major seventh piano chord

How to play Cmaj7 on piano

First, find C, the root of this chord. Then add E, the major third. Add G to complete the triad. The fourth note, B, is a major seventh above the root.

Play the notes together to hear the harmony, or one at a time to hear how the intervals form the chord. Start at a comfortable octave; the diagram shows one reference voicing, not the only valid place to play it.

What makes Cmaj7 distinctive?

C major seventh (C–E–G–B) builds on the familiar C major triad and adds B natural, a major seventh above C. The half-step between B and the next C makes it feel gently unfinished rather than demanding an immediate resolution.

How does Cmaj7 compare with a related chord?

Put Cmaj7 beside C7 (C–E–G–B♭). Both keep C, E and G; the only difference is the seventh, B versus B♭. Then compare Cm7 (C–E♭–G–B♭) to hear how changing the third adds a second, independent change.

A practice exercise for Cmaj7

Play the three-note C–E–G triad and hold it for two counts. Add B to make Cmaj7, then release only B. Repeat with B♭ to make C7. Next play Dm7–G7–Cmaj7 slowly, four beats per chord; notice B stays in G7 and Cmaj7.

One mistake to avoid

The word 'maj7' refers to the seventh interval as well as the major triad. Cmaj7 uses B natural; C7 has B♭. Never substitute C7 when a chart explicitly says Cmaj7.

Finger numbers depend on your hand size, octave and musical context; there isn't one universally correct fingering for every voicing.