Use the numbers

Last time, we gave each note a numbered position. You don't need to have the scale memorized. Here's C major with its positions.

Take 1, skip 2, take 3, skip 4, and take 5. Use the button to walk through it with me.

When we play notes together, we get a chord. This one is a triad: three notes we got by taking every other note from the scale.

If you're at a keyboard, try C, E, and G together. Take your time finding them.

Different scale, same move

Now try G major. Start on its first note again. Find positions 1, 3, and 5 and select those three notes before checking.

Once you've found them, try playing them together. Leave the scale here while you find the notes.

That's the move we needed

Find 1, 3, and 5. Say the note names. Play those three notes together. You used the numbers from the scale to build a chord you can play.

You don't need to sort out every kind of chord right now. Sit with these two and play them again when you have a minute.

Want to check the idea?

This quiz is optional. Keep the visible scales beside you. It isn't a gate to continuing.

A little practice, at your pace

Choose a scale. Find and select positions 1, 3, and 5, then say the note names. Check your notes and listen to them together. Try them on your keyboard if you can.