C dominant 7th chord on piano
C7 is a dominant 7th chord built on C. It uses the notes C - E - G - B♭ and sounds bluesy with a strong pull toward the next chord.
- Notes
- C E G B♭
- Formula
- 1 - 3 - 5 - ♭7
- Right hand fingering
- 1 - 2 - 3 - 5
- Left hand fingering
- 5 - 3 - 2 - 1
- Chord symbol
- C7
How to play C7 step by step
- Find C. C is the white key just left of each group of two black keys.
- Add E, 4 half steps above C.
- Add G, 7 half steps above C.
- Add B♭, 10 half steps above C.
- Press all 4 keys together with fingers 1 - 2 - 3 - 5 of your right hand. Keep your wrist level and let the weight of your arm do the work.
C7 inversions
An inversion uses the same notes in a different order. Inversions let your hand move less between chords, which is how pianists make chord changes sound smooth.
Songs that use C7
Practice C7 inside real music. These tutorials use it in the left-hand accompaniment:
- When the Saints Go Marching In (very easy, C major)
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the C dominant 7th chord?
The C dominant 7th chord (C7) contains 4 notes: C, E, G, B♭. Its formula is 1 - 3 - 5 - ♭7.
How do you play C7 on piano?
Put your right-hand thumb on C and play C, E, G, B♭ together using fingers 1 - 2 - 3 - 5. With the left hand, use fingers 5 - 3 - 2 - 1.