Augmented triads explained on a virtual piano

Definition of Augmented Triads

An augmented triad is a chord with three notes such that:
  • the 2nd note is 4 semitones above the first
  • the 3rd note is 4 semitones above the second.
The pattern is 0+4+4.
Alternatively, an augmented triad is a chord with three notes such that:
  • the second note is 4 semitones above the first
  • the third note is 8 semitones above the first.
The pattern is {0, 4, 8}.
It's the simplest form of an augmented chord.

Uniformly spaced piano keys play augmented triads

The white and black buttons above play augmented triads. They demonstrate the arithmetic rule where the second note is 4 notes to the right from the root note while the third note is still 4 more notes further to the right, so that if the root is a number x, then the two other notes are x+4 and x+8. This uniformity is harder to see on the actual piano keys because of the black keys being irregularly tucked between the white keys.

Real layout virtual piano keys play augmented triads

This virtual piano plays only augmented triads:

The virtual piano above plays augmented triads in such a way that all the three notes are played at the same time by default. However, it can also play augmented triads with a slight delay between each note in ascending or descending order.

This virtual piano keyboard has additional extra features which are hidden by default. You can add or remove octaves, adjust the volume, turn sustain on and off, and choose from a selection of voices to hear the augmented triads played by different instruments. An overview of the full functionality is available on the home page of VirtualPiano.Online. To access these features click on the settings icon above the piano. It toggles which features are shown.

All-purpose virtual piano for self-study

Below is the most generic form of our virtual piano interface where the piano plays single notes. You can use it to practice playing augmented triads by picking the individual notes on your own.

Tick the CHORD checkbox to enter into chord playing mode. You will hear the chords. In addition, the chords you pick will be recognized and labeled to help you verify if you get the augmented triads right.

This virtual piano plays single notes and custom chords.

See also