Chord Shapes

Dominant 13th Flat 9th

Typical intervals: 1-3-5-b7-b9-13, most often voiced as 3-b7-b9-13. The combination of a dark, Phrygian-style b9 with a warm 13 makes this a favourite V chord in minor iiø–V–i progressions and in rich cadences in both major and minor. Conceptually it relates to the 5th mode of harmonic or melodic minor (Mixolydian b9 b13). Upper-structure triads such as bIII or bVI major over the dominant root are a practical way of voicing 13b9 colours. Use it when you want a V that clearly points to a minor tonic but with a plush, almost orchestral sonority.