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At its core, a spread triad involves taking a traditional triad—such as a major, minor, or diminished—and "spreading" it out by moving the middle note up an octave. For example, starting with a C major triad (C-E-G), raising the E to the next octave creates a spread triad (C-G-E). This revoicing opens up new sonic possibilities, making chords sound more expansive and giving melodies more melodic richness.
Spread triads are fundamental because they are embedded within virtually every seventh chord structure. For instance:
Cmaj7 incorporates an E minor triad (E-G-B)
Cm7 contains an E♭ major triad
C7 involves parts of a diminished triad
When these triads are revoiced as spread triads, they can be woven into solo lines or chord voicings to add color and interest.