1-4 2 Recognize Major, Minor, Diminished, and Augmented Triads
Key Concepts
Triads are the basic building blocks of harmony in Western music. They consist of three notes stacked in thirds. The four main types of triads are major, minor, diminished, and augmented. Understanding these triads is crucial for chord formation and harmonic analysis.
Explanation of Triads
Triads are built by stacking thirds (either major or minor) on top of each other. The three notes in a triad are called the root, third, and fifth.
Major Triad
A major triad consists of a root, a major third above the root, and a perfect fifth above the root. The interval pattern is: root (1), major third (4), perfect fifth (2).
Example: C major triad - C (root), E (major third), G (perfect fifth).
Minor Triad
A minor triad consists of a root, a minor third above the root, and a perfect fifth above the root. The interval pattern is: root (1), minor third (4), perfect fifth (2).
Example: A minor triad - A (root), C (minor third), E (perfect fifth).
Diminished Triad
A diminished triad consists of a root, a minor third above the root, and a diminished fifth above the root. The interval pattern is: root (1), minor third (4), diminished fifth (2).
Example: B diminished triad - B (root), D (minor third), F (diminished fifth).
Augmented Triad
An augmented triad consists of a root, a major third above the root, and an augmented fifth above the root. The interval pattern is: root (1), major third (4), augmented fifth (2).
Example: C augmented triad - C (root), E (major third), G# (augmented fifth).
Examples and Analogies
Think of triads as different types of sandwiches. A major triad is like a classic sandwich with a perfect balance of ingredients. A minor triad is like a sandwich with a slightly different flavor, but still balanced. A diminished triad is like a sandwich with a missing ingredient, making it less stable. An augmented triad is like a sandwich with an extra ingredient, giving it a unique and slightly off-balance taste.
Insight and Value
Recognizing and understanding major, minor, diminished, and augmented triads is essential for musicians. It allows for accurate chord formation, harmonic analysis, and improvisation. Mastering these triads enables musicians to navigate different musical styles and genres with ease, enhancing their overall musical proficiency.