We write the major triad just with its root note, so the C major triad is simply written as C. The root, 3 rd and 5 th are Eb, G and Bb.

OK, one more example: the Eb major triad. The root, 3 rd and 5 th in the A major scale are A, C# and E. Let’s try another example: the A major triad. The E is therefore called the major 3 rd in the key of C.

Notice the major 3 rd interval between the root (C) and the E. So, the notes of a C major triad are: C, E and G. For example, the C (major) triad is formed by the root, the 3 rd and the 5 th note of the C major scale. Major triadsĪ major triad is made of the root (1 st), 3 rd and 5 th note of the major scale. If you want to hear sound samples of the different chords, please refer to the lesson ‘ What is a chord? How do different chords sound?’. We can have major triads and major chords with a 7 th. How are major chords formed? The most important characteristic of a major chord is the major 3 rd interval from the root (starting note) to the second chord note.

B flat major chord piano