Last update 22/11/98
Part 3
The D Major Chord
Lets see if we can make up a D major triad
D scale is D, E, F#, G, A, B, C#, D
Major chord triad :- (1st) D,( 3rd) F#,( 5th) A
Disregarding the fifth string for the moment
there are four strings available to make the D major chord.
Looking at the lowest available notes we have the following shapes
Using this fingering pattern means that the chord is a closed shape
i.e. all four strings are fretted
The fingering pattern shape associated with this chord at this location gives it
its identifying name i.e the Dee shape
Now here comes the problem ! moving this closed position shape up the neck
for example say a further three frets the pitch of the resulting chord rises to F major.
(remember the progression D, Eb, E, F, F#, G, G#, A, Bb, B, C, C#, D)
So this Dee shape can be moved up the fingerboard to make any other major chord.
Many musicians, rather than saying play F Major, say things like
play Dee shape third fret
confusing init
Major to minor
|
NOTE:that the pitch of the second string will indicate the Major
chord name and that the first string is the third interval on the major
scale so to change this chord form to a minor shape just flatten the first
string one semitone |
|
|
So learn the rule to change this Major chord form to a Minor just
drop the first string one fret |
Click on this button applet for D minor
|