The C Major Chord
The C major chord is constructed from the C major scale. When the major chord formula is applied to the C major scale, it can be seen that the C major chord contains the notes C, E and G.
C Major Scale
The chord symbol for a major chord is just the letter name of the chord, e.g., the chord symbol for the C major chord is C. It is common practice to refer to a C major chord as the C chord. This abbreviation applies to all major chords.
Play the three notes of the C chord with the first, third and fifth fingers of your right hand, individually, and then together as shown here.
When playing a chord one note at a time it is referred to as an arpeggio.
( For more information on major scales, see Progressive Keyboard Technique )
The first note from the major scale (and hence the first note of the major chord) is called the root note. When playing chords with the right hand, the left hand often plays the root note, as shown in the following example.
In this example the C chord is played in arpeggio style in bars 1 and 3.
Chord
Chord shapes can be illustrated by using chord diagrams. In this book, chord diagrams will be used to illustrate each new chord.
C Major
If you are not familiar with any notes given on the stave or any terms used, please see Progressive Keyboard Technique.
