Piano Learning Guide.
Learning to read piano chords: a basic guide to the beginner.
This easy-to-follow guide will teach you how the chords of the piano work, how to read them without spending too much time, how to apply them to play the favorite songs in a simple way, in spite of the fact that you can not even read full sheet music.
And in case you desire to play the modern music, worship songs, pop tunes or even improvising, the easiest way to begin is by learning the piano chords.
Piano is easier and more enjoyable as you can play the entire song using some chords without having to read each note.
This tutorial defines the definition of chords, the way they are constructed and how they can be read immediately.
What Is a Piano Chord?
When there are three or more notes being played together then it is called a chord.
The first chord used by beginners is triad, which consists of:
- A root
- A third
- A fifth
Example:
C-E-G is the C Major chord.
Knowledge of Major and Minor Chords.
- Major Chords = Happy Sound
- Formula:root + 4 half steps + 3 half steps.
- Example: C-E-G
- Minor Chords = Sad Sound
- Formula: Root + 3 half steps + 4 half steps
- Example: A-C-E
This formula will make you construct any chord independently.
How to Read Chord Symbol
Symbols of chords are found above lyrics or sheet music.
Here's what they mean:
- C = C Major
- Am = A Minor
- G7 = G Dominant 7
- Fmaj7 = F Major 7
Quick Trick:
- No symbol means major
- A small "m" means mino
Learn the Four most common chords.
These four chords are used in nearly 60 percent of the popular songs:
- C Major
- G Major
- A Minor
- F Major
It is referred to as I-V-si-IV progression and you can play hundreds of songs using it.
Play Inversions to Play Smoothly.
Inversions allow you to change chords with ease through inversion of notes.
- Example (C Major)
- Root: C-E-G
- 1st inversion: E-G-C
- 2nd inversion: G-C-E
Inversion will sound professional- even when you are trying to learn how to play.
Attempt Left-Hand Right-Hand Patterns.
- Left Hand: chord (blocked or broken)
- Right Hand: strikes highest notes or melody.
Start simple:
- Single notes
- Broken chords
- Repeating patterns
Practice With Real Songs
Select songs with simplistic chords such as:
- "Someone Like You"
- "Let It Be"
- "Perfect"
- Worship and pop songs
Practice changing between chords using chord charts or YouTube tutorials.
Conclusion
When you can read the chords of a piano you get a chance to be able to sing thousands of songs--fast.
The beginners can sound advanced even in a short period, using simple patterns, major, and minor chords, and inversions.
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