4.1 triad qualities

A triad is a three-note chord. A triad’s “quality” determines its emotional force and overall sound. Each major scale has three chord qualities: major, minor, and diminished. A major chord will sound bright and happy while a diminished chord will sound tense and unstable. The notes that make up a chord are called chord tones, and the intervals between each chord tone will change depending on the chord quality.

• Watch the walkthrough video.

• Learn how to spell triads below.

triad spelling

Terms
Triad: A three-note chord created from the root, third, and fifth.
Chord Quality: The sonic characteristic of a chord determined by the intervals of the chord tones.
Major: A triad quality that is spelled with first, third, and fifth note of a major pentascale.
Minor: A triad quality that uses the same notes as a major chord but with a lowered third.
Diminished: A triad quality that uses the same notes as a major chord but with a lowered third and fifth.
Augmented: A triad quality that uses the same notes as a major chord but with a raised fifth.

Chords sound best played within a specific part of the keyboard, specifically where the bass leaves off. The chordal range sounds best between C2 and C5 (DAW octave numbers).

Triad Quality Spelling

• Work on spelling chords using the Triad Spelling Worksheet →.

• Memorize the chord spellings. Triad Quality Flashcards →.

• Practice recognizing chord shapes on the piano. Piano Flashcards →

• Practice identifying triad qualities using the exercise below.

TRIAD QUALITIES

Play through major and minor pentascales through the circle of fifths to practice triad grips and different types of root movements.

• Start by going through the pentascale grips with your right hand.

• Once you have gained familiarity with the shapes, use the videos below to develop mastery.

• Try not to use your ear to alter the shape after you play it.

MAJOR

The Dock Of The Bay

Dock of The Bay by Otis Redding is a song that uses only major chords. There are seven total chords in the verse, chorus, and bridge of this song. Apply your knowledge of major chords in root position to play through Dock of The Bay.

• Apply right hand major chords in root position to play the chords in Dock Of The Bay in the original key (G).

• Practice without the recording and gain confidence in going from chord to chord quickly.

• Play Along with the recording.

• Repeat the process in the key of Ab.

TRIAD QUALITY TEST

Demonstrate your abillity to change triad qualities through the circle of fourths.

• Follow the circle of fourths clock to determine the root of each chord.

• Perform the indicated chord quality for two beats along with the metronome.

• Move to the next root during the countdown.

Root Position Playing Playing

• Choose a song and open the lead sheet.

• Place your right hand in the pentascale grip that corresponds with the letter name of the chord.

• Press down your thumb (root), middle finger (third), and pinky (fifth) to play a major triad.

• Change the raise/lower the third or fifth to play different chord qualities.

• Practice until you are comfortable with the chords.

• Play along with the recordings.

EAR TRAINING

Drum + Drone Triad Qualities

• Sing, hum, or play along with the drum and drone video.

• Practice hearing chord qualities in the music you listen to.