Triads are the foundation of harmony. They are composed of a three-note chord: Root, 3rd, 5th. These are Intervals. The quality of the 3rd and 5th determine the chord type.
| Type | Intervals | Example (C) | Diagram |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major | Root, Major 3rd, Perfect 5th | C E G |  |
| Minor | Root, Minor 3rd, Perfect 5 | C E♭ G |  |
| Diminished | Root, Minor 3rd, Diminished 5 | C E♭ G♭ |  |
| Augmented | Root, Major 3rd, Augmented 5th | C E G# |  |
Shapes
Each type of triad can be played from a different starting finger.
Major
| Index | Middle | Pinky |
|---|---|---|
 | |  |
Minor
| Index | Ring | Pinky |
|---|---|---|
 | |  |
Practice
Fret Zones
Divide frets 1-12 into 3 zones (1–5, 5–8, 8–12). Pick a zone and cycle through the circle of 4ths (see Circle of Fifths), e.g. C - F - Bb, etc. Choose a shape for each note that stays within the bounds of that zone.
- Get to know each shape by ascending and descending the triad.
- As you play a shape, be highly aware of the notes and Intervals you’re playing.
- Scott’s Bass Lessons on Youtube
Root - 3rd - 5th
Example Zone 1:
| C (Middle) | F (Index) | Bb (Index) |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
Example Zone 2:
| C (Pinky) | F (Pinky) | Bb (Middle) |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
Example Zone 3:
| C (Index) | F (Index) | Bb (Index) |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
Root - 5th - 3rd
- TODO: Add exercise and diagrams
More
- Figure out the shapes for diminished and augmented triads.
- Use the pinky shape to play a chord
- If using guitar, translate these shapes to accommodate the B string
More Exercises
- Arpeggiate I → iii → V → vii in a key
- Pick the correct chord shape (major or minor)
- Experiment by making your own chord progression