Understanding Major Triads in Music

Getting to know major triads is really important if you want to learn music theory. A triad is made up of three notes that are stacked on top of each other. In a major triad, these notes are called the root, the major third, and the perfect fifth. Let’s break this down simply!

Major Triad Parts

1. Root: This is the starting note of the triad. For example, in a C major triad, the root note is C.

2. Major Third: This note is four half steps up from the root note. In the C major triad, the major third is E. Here’s how to count the half steps from C:

   • C to C# (1)
   • C# to D (2)
   • D to D# (3)
   • D# to E (4)

3. Perfect Fifth: This note is seven half steps above the root note. For C major, the perfect fifth is G. You can count it like this:

   • C to C# (1)
   • C# to D (2)
   • D to D# (3)
   • D# to E (4)
   • E to F (5)
   • F to F# (6)
   • F# to G (7)

Bringing It All Together

So, in the C major triad, the notes are:

• C (Root)
• E (Major Third)
• G (Perfect Fifth)

When you play these notes together, they create a cheerful sound that makes up major chords.

Visual Aid

Here’s a simple way to see the C major triad on a piano keyboard:

C  E  G
|  |  |
o  o  o

Summary of Intervals

To make it clear, the distances between the notes in a major triad are:

• From Root to Major Third = 4 half steps
• From Root to Perfect Fifth = 7 half steps

Wrap-Up

When you understand how a major triad is structured, you have the tools to make chords in different keys. This is a great way to start creating your own music! Whether you’re strumming a guitar or playing a keyboard, the major triad is a key building block in music. Happy playing!