Musical Chord
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Chord Inversion
Chord inversion is an essential technique in music used to create harmonic variety. This technique involves rearranging the notes of a chord so that the lowest note (the bass) is not the root, but one of the other notes that make up the chord. Chord inversion can be applied to any type of chord, whether it is major, minor, diminished, augmented, and others.
To better understand this, let's first define the difference between tonic, root, and bass.
Tonic
Tonic is the name given to the first degree of the scale.
Root
Root is the note that gives the chord its name.
Bass
Bass is the lowest note of the chord.
Chord Inversion
In the topic on Chord Formation, we mentioned that there are basically two chord structures, triads and tetrads. It is important to remember that when we invert a chord, we must use the structural notes of the chord as the bass, not the tensions. Therefore, every inversion should occur with the 3rd, 5th, or 7th with the bass instead of the root.
Chord Inversion
A chord, in its root position, has the root as the lowest note. For example, a C major chord (C) in the root position consists of the notes C, E, and G, with C being the lowest note. When we invert this chord, we change the position of the lowest note to create a new sound.
There are three main inversions for a chord:
- First Inversion: The third of the chord becomes the bass. In the case of C major, the note E is the lowest, followed by G and C. This inversion is noted as C/E.
- Second Inversion: The fifth of the chord becomes the bass. For C major, the note G is the lowest, followed by C and E. This inversion is noted as C/G.
- Third Inversion: In chords with four notes, such as minor seventh and major seventh chords, there is a third inversion where the seventh becomes the lowest note. In the C major seventh chord (C7M), the note B is the lowest. This inversion is noted as C/B.
Note that you do not need to write C7M/B, as it is understood that the bass is already on the seventh (major).
Chord Inversion
| Type | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Root Position | Root in the bass | C7 |
| 1st Inversion | Third in the bass | C7/E |
| 2nd Inversion | Fifth in the bass | C7/G |
| 3rd Inversion | Seventh in the bass | C/B |
Chord Inversion
- Smoothing Harmonic Progressions: Inversions allow for smoother transitions between chords. This is especially useful in progressions where abrupt changes between bass notes can be avoided.
- Harmonic Variety: Using inversions adds harmonic variety to music, avoiding monotony. The same chord sequence can sound completely different with the use of inversions.
- Melodic Variety: Inversions add melodic variety to music. By changing the lowest note, you can create more interesting and dynamic bass lines, enriching the overall texture of the music.
- Depth in Accompaniment: In piano or guitar arrangements, inversions enrich the accompaniment, giving the musician more options to create interesting textures.
Chord Inversion
Composers and arrangers use inversions to add complexity and depth to their compositions. In classical, jazz, pop, and rock music, inversions are a powerful tool for creating movement and interest in harmony.