MUSIC THEORY

Mod 15

• Subject of the Day: Triads
• Reading Assignment: Textbook, pp. 39-41
• Written Assignment: Workbook: Ex. 3-1
• Semester Schedule

Triads are built in thirds (A C E G B D F A C E G B D etc.)
            Ex. G - Bb - D

The members of each triad are named root (G), third (Bb), and fifth (D)

Major triads are constructed with specifically a M3 from root to third and a mi3 from third to fifth.  The fifth of the triad is a P5 above the root.

Minor triads are  constructed with specifically a mi3 from root to third and a M3 from third to fifth.  The fifth of the triad is a P5 above the root.

Diminished triads are constructed with specifically a mi3 from root to third and a mi3 from third to fifth.  The fifth of the triad is a ^o5 above the root.

Augmented triads are constructed with specifically a M3 from root to third and a M3 from third to fifth.  The fifth of the triad is a +5 above the root.

You can practice building triads by clicking on Chord Practice.
 

Basic triads are those which are native to the bare staff (no accidentals)

The triad present on D is D minor
The triad present on E is E minor
The triad present on Fis F major
The triad present on G is G major
The triad present on A is A minor
The triad present on B isB diminished
The triad present on C is C major

Basic Triads

If you still have questions, contact Dr. Bartolotta at wbartolo@odu.edu