Forming Major and Minor Triads

Major and minor triads are the beginning basis for all harmony in Western music. Knowing how to form them will give you a better understanding of the music and will help you to compose your own pieces.

Triads are formed based on the key of the piece. Therefore, knowing the circle of fifths and fourths is integral. After you have memorized this, forming triads will be significantly easier.

To form a major triad you need to use the 1st note, 3rd note and 5th note of the scale/key you are playing in. For example, in the key of C, the notes for a major triad would be C, E and G. In the key of A this would be A, C# and E. As you go through the circle of 5ths/4ths you will find that the sharps and flats, respectively, will increase. Be careful of this when you form you major triads, as it can get confusing in keys with a lot of sharps or flats.

To form a minor triad the only thing that changes is the 3rd scale degree; you will now flat the 3rd note of the scale instead of keeping it in the key. I.E.: Key of c minor triad = C, Eb, G. Key of a minor = A, C Natural, G. If you have trouble, use your ears to help; most people would say that major triads sound "happy" while minor triads sound "sad".

Find a simple song you like that doesn't have any triads with a lot of sharps or flats and try to accompany yourself or someone else while you or they sing. Keep practicing and work your way through the harder keys until you can play all the major and minor triads. Good luck!