Triads & Inversions
Four triad qualities, three positions each — twelve shapes built from the same simple stack-of-thirds idea, all playable right under your hand.
Four triad qualities
Every triad stacks two thirds on top of a root. Whether each third is major (4 semitones) or minor (3 semitones) determines the triad's quality: major (major 3rd + minor 3rd), minor (minor 3rd + major 3rd), diminished (minor 3rd + minor 3rd), and augmented (major 3rd + major 3rd).
Root position and both inversions
The same three notes can be reordered so a different one sits at the bottom: root position (root in the bass), first inversion (3rd in the bass), and second inversion (5th in the bass). See the full breakdown in Chord Inversions & Slash Chords — here, try it directly on the keyboard.
Common questions
What are the four triad qualities?
Major, minor, diminished, and augmented — each built from a different combination of major and minor thirds stacked on a root.
How do you play a triad's inversions on piano?
Root position has the root at the bottom; first inversion the 3rd; second inversion the 5th — same three notes, reordered.
Why practice triads in all their inversions?
They keep your hand near the keyboard's center and are essential for smooth voice leading between chords.
What's the difference between diminished and augmented triads?
Diminished stacks two minor thirds (shrunken 5th); augmented stacks two major thirds (stretched 5th). Both are less common than major and minor.
Play every triad shape on a live keyboard
Melody Monkey visualizes chord voicings on piano, guitar, bass, or ukulele — in any key, instantly.
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