Basic Chord Theory

​Major Chord Formula:

The chord formula for major chords is 1-3-5.

We take the 1^st, 3^rd, and 5^th note of the major scale to create this chord.

Example: So a C Major chord has the notes C-E-G because the 1^st, 3^rd, and 5^th are C, E and G

Minor Chord Formula:

The formula for minor chords is 1 - b3 (flat 3) - 5.

It's similar to the major chord except that the middle note has been lowered by a

In other words the distance (or interval) between the root and the 3rd is smaller than in the major chord.

That interval is called a minor 3rd and that's why the chord is called MINOR.

Example: So a C minor chord has the notes C-Eb-G because the 1^st, b3^rd, and 5^th are C, Eb (D#) and G