Major Chords on Piano
The major chord is the most fundamental chord in music — a three-note triad built from the root, major third, and perfect fifth. It has a bright, happy, and stable sound that forms the harmonic foundation of virtually all Western music.
Formula: Root – Major 3rd – Perfect 5th
Intervals: 4 semitones + 3 semitones (from root)
Scale degrees: 1–3–5
Sound: Bright, happy, stable, resolved
Symbol: Just the letter name (C, D, E etc.)
Building major chords: Start on any note (the root). Go up 4 semitones to find the major third. Go up 3 more semitones to find the perfect fifth. This 4+3 pattern works for every major chord on the keyboard.
Major Chord in All 18 Keys
Select any key to see notes, the interactive keyboard, inversions, fingering, and practice tips.