(TRD) Introduction to Chords Lesson

Introduction to Chords

A chord is a combination of three or more notes. Chords are built off of a single note, called the root.

In this lesson, we will discuss triads (3-note chords). They are created with a root, third, and fifth. A major triad (or major chord) is built with a major third and a perfect fifth from the root.

Let's write a C major triad. First, write the root (C) on the staff.

Next, write the generic third and generic fifth from the root. We now need to determine the specific intervals on the keyboard.

Since we need a major third, let's count up four half steps from the root.

 

For the perfect fifth, go back to the root and count up seven half steps. Since the chord contains no black keys, we do not need to write any accidentals on the staff. A C major triad is C---E---G.

Next, let's try an Eb major triad

Write the generic third and fifth on the staff.

Now, switch to the keyboard. Start at the Eb and count up four half steps for the major third.

Go back to the root and count up seven half steps for the perfect fifth.

Finally, write any needed accidentals. In addition to the already-written Eb, we need a flat next to the B. An Eb major triad is Eb---G---Bb.

 

Next, let's try a B major triad.

Write the generic third and fifth on the staff.

Count the major third (4 half steps) and perfect fifth (7 half steps).

Finally, write the needed accidentals on the staff. We need two sharps: one for the D and one for the F. A B major triad is B---D#---F#.

Next, we will discuss the minor triad. It is created with a minor third and a perfect fifth from the root.

Let's build a C minor triad.

Write the generic third and fifth on the staff.

Now, switch to the keyboard. Start at the C and count up three half steps for the minor third.

Go back to the root and count up seven half steps for the perfect fifth.

Finally, write any needed accidentals. A C minor triad is C---Eb---G.

Let's build an Eb minor triad.

Write the generic third and fifth on the staff.

Next, count the minor third (3 half steps) and perfect fifth (7 half steps).

Finally, write any needed accidentals. An Eb minor triad is Eb---Gb---Bb.

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