The chord name comes from the root.
Major chords
Major piano chords
Major piano chords are usually built from a root, a major third, and a perfect fifth. C major is C, E, and G.
C4D4E4F4G4A4B4C5D5E5
C#4D#4F#4G#4A#4C#5D#5A major third is four half steps above the root.
A perfect fifth is seven half steps above the root.
Major chord formula
Count four half steps from the root to find the major third, then seven half steps from the root to find the fifth.
Common major chords
C major, F major, and G major are the most common first major chords because they fit naturally in C major songs.
How major chords sound
Major chords often sound stable, bright, or resolved, which is why they appear in many beginner songs.
Starter major piano chords
| Chord | Notes |
|---|---|
| C major | C E G |
| F major | F A C |
| G major | G B D |
| D major | D F# A |
| A major | A C# E |
FAQ
Quick answers
What is the easiest major piano chord?
C major is usually the easiest because it uses only white keys.
What notes are in C major?
C major uses C, E, and G.
How do I build a major chord?
Use the root, the note four half steps above it, and the note seven half steps above it.