Major chords explained on a virtual piano

Definition of major chords

The prototypical example of a major chord is three ascending notes such that:
  • the 2nd note is 4 semitones above the 1st
  • the 3rd note is 3 semitones above the 2nd
The pattern is 0+4+3.
Alternatively, the prototypical example of a major chord is three ascending notes such that:
  • the 2nd note is 4 semitones above the first
  • the 3rd note is 7 semitones above the first
The pattern is {0, 4, 7}.

Note that the prototypical major chord is a major triad.

The prototypical major chord is just one among many examples because major chords can appear in multiple inversions and voicings. Although chord tones may be doubled and arranged across different octaves and spacing, none of the three essential tones can be omitted. A complete formal definition covering all possible inversions and voicings would be very complicated, so we omit it, hoping this long interactive page clarifies all your questions.

Try every major chord voicing on our interactive piano

Just pick the root note and the number of notes to include in the chord.

Then below the keyboard you will see buttons listing all the possible voicings that match your choice.

You may also extend the range of the virtual piano by clicking the + buttons beside the keyboard. Keep in mind that wide gaps between notes or other factors may prevent some voicings from being perceived as major chords.

This virtual piano plays only major chords:

Bookmark your selection of major chords

The link below leads directly to the exact selection of major chords that you see above.

All-purpose virtual piano for self-study

The voicings virtual piano above has additional extra features which are hidden by default. You can adjust the volume, turn sustain on and off, and choose from a selection of voices to hear the major chords 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.

Below is the most generic form of our virtual piano interface where the piano plays single notes. You can use it to practice playing major chords 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 major chords right.

This virtual piano plays single notes and custom chords.

See also