Chord Inversions: Beyond Root Position

Root Position

Before we describe chord inversions, let's review what a "root" position triad is. A triad in root position has the note for which the chord is named in the lowest position. Written on the staff., the chord will be placed on three consecutive lines, or three consecutive spaces. Below is the "C" chord in root position:

Though we can change the order of the notes, the note "C" still functions as the "root," that is, the note that for which the chord is named. "E" still functions as the "third," and "G" still functions as the "fifth." So, though the notes are not in "root" position, we still have a "C" chord. As a matter of fact, any combination of the three notes C, E and G will result in a "C" chord. This "rule" holds for all major and minor triad chord inversions.

First Inversion

To make a first inversion of a root position triad, we take the lowest note (the root) and simply move it to the top. For example the root position "C" chord, is C,E, and G from low to high. The first inversion "C" chord will now be E,G and C from low to high. Notice on the staff how the first inversion triad has one note by itself on the top of the chord. This makes it easily recognized.

We can change the order from low to high again, this time with the "fifth" as the lowest note. Now the "C" chord will be played as G, C, and E from low to high. Notice on the staff how the triad in second inversion has two notes together on top. Again, this is helpful in recognizing the second inversion triad.

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