The C major triad, more commonly called the C major chord or simply the C chord for short, is typically the first chord learned in music theory. Here it is on the treble clef staff:
… and on the piano:
Here is the C major chord on the bass clef staff:
As a major triad, the C chord consists of a major third plus a minor third. The interval from C to E is a major third, while the interval between E and G is a minor third.
If the root of the C chord – C – is the bass note (i.e., the bottom note), then the chord is in root position:
If the third of the chord – E – is the bottom note, then the chord is in first inversion:
If the fifth of the chord – G – is the bass note, then the chord is in second inversion. (G is called the fifth of the chord because the interval from the root C to G is a fifth.)
If the notes of a chord are played one after the other, the chord is said to be arpeggiated. Here are the standard fingerings for arpeggios of the C chord. Make sure you learn these fingerings!
(If you don’t understand the below notation, you should start with my How to Read Sheet Music course.)
Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.
Don't worry, your information will not be shared.