Triads are three-note chords built by stacking thirds. They form the backbone of Western music harmony. By understanding triads, musicians can effortlessly navigate chord progressions and compose music that resonates emotionally.
- Triads are three-note chords.
- Built by stacking thirds.
- Essential for understanding chord progressions and musical harmony.
Major Triads
Major triads have a bright, cheerful sound and are constructed using the root, major third, and perfect fifth. They create a stable harmonic foundation and are the first chords learned by beginners.
- Composed of: Root, Major Third, Perfect Fifth.
- Structure: R – 3 – 5 (e.g., C – E – G).
- Sound: Bright and cheerful.
Minor Triads
Minor triads provide a more somber, introspective sound compared to major triads. They are formed by the root, minor third, and perfect fifth. The alteration of the third from major to minor gives them their distinct emotional quality.
- Composed of: Root, Minor Third, Perfect Fifth.
- Structure: R – b3 – 5 (e.g., A – C – E).
- Sound: Somber and introspective.
Diminished Triads
Diminished triads have a tense and unstable sound, often used to build suspense in music. They are constructed by stacking two minor thirds, resulting in a root, minor third, and diminished fifth. This unique structure gives them a distinctive, unresolved quality.
- Composed of: Root, Minor Third, Diminished Fifth.
- Structure: R – b3 – b5 (e.g., B – D – F).
- Sound: Tense and unstable.
Augmented Triads
Augmented triads feature an ethereal, otherworldly sound and are less common in traditional harmony. They are formed by stacking a major third on top of another major third, giving us the root, major third, and augmented fifth. This configuration creates a sense of longing and ambiguity.
- Composed of: Root, Major Third, Augmented Fifth.
- Structure: R – 3 – #5 (e.g., C – E – G#).
- Sound: Ethereal and ambiguous.