BookatlasPiano Rabbit Hole: Improvisation Theory & Practice
568 / 18210 · Module 13 — Extensions: 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths← prev⊞ allnext →

13.54The melody gets priority

If your extension conflicts badly with the melody:

change or omit it.

Theoretical completeness is irrelevant.

For example, if melody is F over C major and your RH voicing includes E right beside it, you may decide:

  • omit E
  • move E lower
  • use a sus sound
  • choose different harmony

The audience hears the actual notes, not the chord symbol.