1-4 Chords
Key Concepts
- Chord: A chord is a combination of three or more notes played together, creating a harmonic unit.
- 1-4 Chords: These are chords built on the first (tonic) and fourth (subdominant) degrees of a scale.
- Tonic (1): The first note of the scale, which provides a sense of stability and resolution.
- Subdominant (4): The fourth note of the scale, which creates a sense of tension and prepares for the return to the tonic.
Explanation of 1-4 Chords
In music, the 1-4 chords are fundamental to creating harmonic progressions. The tonic chord (1) is built on the first note of the scale and serves as the home base of the key. The subdominant chord (4) is built on the fourth note of the scale and provides a contrasting yet stable harmonic environment.
Tonic Chord (1)
The tonic chord is the most stable and provides a sense of resolution. In a major key, the tonic chord is a major triad (three notes: root, third, and fifth). In a minor key, the tonic chord is a minor triad.
Example in C major: The tonic chord is C major (C-E-G).
Subdominant Chord (4)
The subdominant chord creates a sense of tension and prepares for the return to the tonic. In a major key, the subdominant chord is also a major triad. In a minor key, it is a minor triad.
Example in C major: The subdominant chord is F major (F-A-C).
Examples and Analogies
Think of the 1-4 chords as a journey: the tonic chord is the starting point and the subdominant chord is a resting place before returning home. This progression creates a sense of movement and resolution.
Example in C major:
- Tonic chord (1): C major (C-E-G)
- Subdominant chord (4): F major (F-A-C)
In a song, this progression might sound like a verse that starts and ends on the tonic chord, with a brief stop at the subdominant chord in the middle.
Practical Application
Understanding and using 1-4 chords is essential for creating harmonic progressions in music. By mastering these chords, you can build simple yet effective melodies and harmonies. Practice playing these chords on your instrument and experiment with different keys to deepen your understanding.