Diatonic Chords
Chords that fit in a particular Key.

So far we've learned that:

• a Key is a collection of notes used in a song
• a Chord is a set of notes, played together, that sound good
• and we've learned about Major, Minor, and Diminished chords.

Now, since a Key is a limited set of notes used in a song, not all chords fit in a given Key. Some will be Major, some will be Minor, and some will be Diminished.

The chords that fit in a particular Key are called Diatonic Chords.

Which chords fit in the Key of C Major?

To do this, make sure that all the notes in the chord are also in the Key. Hover over each choice to see the included notes.

So we see now that only certain chords will fit in a given Key. Stick to the chords that fit in your Key, and your music will sound good!

Seven Triads in Any Key

By now you've found the seven Triads (3-note chords) in the Key of C Major. There are actually seven Triads in every Key. Use the tool to start exploring which chords are safe to use in each Key.

C Major

Next Consonance & Dissonance

Replacing the terms "good" and "bad" when talking about harmonies and music.

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