The Triad (The Basic Chord)

A single note is a point in space. Two notes are a line. Three notes create a shape. A Chord is three or more notes played simultaneously. The simplest chord is called a Triad.

15.1 Anatomy of a Triad

Every triad is built by stacking 3rds on top of each other.

1. The Root: The foundation note (e.g., C).
2. The Third: The note a 3rd above the root (e.g., E). This decides if the chord is Happy or Sad.
3. The Fifth: The note a 5th above the root (e.g., G). This provides stability.

15.2 The Four Types of Triads

There are only four ways to combine Major and Minor 3rds.

1. Major Triad: (Root + Major 3rd + Minor 3rd).
   • Formula: 4 semitones + 3 semitones.
   • Sound: Happy, Bright, Stable.
   • Example: C – E – G.
2. Minor Triad: (Root + Minor 3rd + Major 3rd).
   • Formula: 3 semitones + 4 semitones.
   • Sound: Sad, Serious, Dark.
   • Example: C – E♭ – G.
3. Diminished Triad: (Root + Minor 3rd + Minor 3rd).
   • Formula: 3 semitones + 3 semitones.
   • Sound: Tense, Scary, Cramped.
   • Example: C – E♭ – G♭.
4. Augmented Triad: (Root + Major 3rd + Major 3rd).
   • Formula: 4 semitones + 4 semitones.
   • Sound: Dreamy, Floaty, Unsettled.
   • Example: C – E – G#.