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Major Chords

Major chords create a bright, happy sound. They are built using the 1st, 3rd, and 5th degrees of the major scale.

Structure​

A major chord consists of:

  • Root - The fundamental note that gives the chord its name
  • Major Third - 4 semitones above the root
  • Perfect Fifth - 7 semitones above the root

Examples:​

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  • C major: C - E - G
  • D major: D - F# - A
  • E major: E - G# - B
  • F major: F - A - C

Sound Characteristics​

  • Mood: Bright, happy, stable
  • Symbol: C, Cmaj, or CM

Major chords form the basis for most chord progressions and are essential for understanding harmony in music.