However, in an augmented chord, the fifth is eight semitones away from the root and in a diminished chord the fifth is six semitones away from the root. In a major or minor chord, the fifth is seven semitones away from the root as shown in the diagram below:
The fifth is also important because it can further define the chord as an augmented chord or a diminished chord.
The fifth adds stability and weight to the chord and closes out the triad sonically. The top note of the triad is called the fifth. A major chord generally sounds happier and brighter while a minor chord generally sounds darker and more sad.ĭon’t overload yourself with theory right now, but just understand that a major third is four semitones away from the root note and a minor third is three semitones away from the root note.Ĭheck out these diagrams below to see the major third and minor third on the keyboard. The third defines the chord as a major chord or a minor chord. The middle note of the triad is called the third. For example, if you are playing a song and the first chord is C major, that means your chord will start on the note C. You will see it written first as a capital letter. Anything with the prefix “tri” indicates a group of three. The main type of chord that you will be learning about in this post is called a triad.
