Piano Key2

If you are learning or planning to learn chord based piano, it s a must that you learn how to construct chords.

If you re already familiar with scales, it s very easy to construct chords. The following steps will help you construct 48 chords in about 5 minutes.

First, In order to learn how to construct chords on your own, you need to memorize formulas. Each chord type has its own specific formula. There are 4 basic chord types, thus 4 basic formulas: major, minor, diminished, and augmented.

When constructing chords it s helpful to think in terms of steps. After all, chords are made of thirds which are made of steps. A half step is the shortest distance between two notes.

For example, from C to C# is a half step, C# to D another half step, and so on.

3 half steps = minor third (M3)
4 half steps = major third (m3)

Here s the formula for the first 4 chords:

1) M3 + m3 = Major triad
Ex: C E G = C Major

2) m3 + M3 = Minor triad
Ex: C Eb G

3) m3 + m3 = Diminished Triad
Ex: C Eb Gb (or F#)

4) M3 + M3 = Augmented Triad
Ex: C E G#

The above examples are based on the scale of C major. Now apply this formula for all twelve keys and you ll have 48 triads under your belt! Once you

ve mastered these basic chords, you might want to add more complex chords such as 7th, 9th, 11th, and 13th. While they might sound intimidating, they simply are extensions of the basic triads.

So throw away your chord chart books. You don t need to memorize hundreds of chords. Now you know how to construct your own! Remember: memorize formulas, not chords.

Alex Nguyen is the Rapid Piano Expert who has been playing piano for over 20 years. Now he s helping others learn to play piano rapidly and enjoy it from day one. To get your FREE mini report The 7 Most Powerful Tips To Learning The Piano Rapidly, and learn how you can get

personal piano coaching from Alex for FREE for a limited time, visit http://www.RapidPiano.com