My Color Music

Okay, so this is how chords work … just like scale patterns, chords are totally simple. We use the same 12 notes to make them. And just like before, we label each note using the same number names, or “scale degrees.”

Based on these 12 notes, we can create all sorts of cool chords. But the most popular chord in music—by far—is called the “major chord.” It has only three notes … which together, create a strong, solid sound that goes well with most melodies. Like most things in music, this chord (or “triad”) is based on the major scale pattern … and it’s very easy to play.

For example, check out the “C major chord,” which is built from the C major scale. Starting on the tonic (note 1), all we have to do is hit every other note of the scale up to G (the dominant note) and we have our chord. The C major triad includes C (note 1) … E (note 3) … and G (note 5). It’s that simple.

Because we use chords to support the melody, these notes are usually played with the left hand. (You can also play this same chord with your right hand … but for now, let’s just focus on the left.) With your little finger, hit C (note 1). Then with your middle finger, hit E (note 3). And finally, hit G (note 5) with your thumb. As you play these notes together, be sure to keep your other fingers raised slightly … so they don’t accidentally hit any notes. You’ll hear this chord has a strong, happy sound to it. Together, the tonic (1), major-third (3), and dominant (5) notes all sound really good.

Just like scales, chords are used a lot in music. They sound nice … and they’re easy to play in any key. For example, we can play this same major chord starting on any tonic note. In each key, the major triad is always built from notes “1—3—5.” (And this “every other” pattern is easy to see on the staff lines.)

To see what I mean, try playing each of the following major chords and listen to how good the notes sound together. As they say, “the more you practice, the better you’ll get.”