C chord: major
C is the major chord on C: C, E and G (1–3–5). C stacks the root C, the major third E and the perfect fifth G. The major triad stacks the root, major third and perfect fifth.
Notes in C: C – E – GFormula: 1 – 3 – 5In the formula, the numbers count steps of the major scale starting from the note that names the chord; "b" lowers a half step, "#" raises one — and a slash names the bass note.
It is the most stable and clear sound in tonal music — the point of rest from which almost everything else is heard.
The same chord on all four instruments
Where to use it
Tonic, subdominant or dominant depending on the scale degree; the foundation of most repertoire.
See C voicings on the fretboard →See C voicings on the fretboard →See C voicings on the fretboard →See C voicings on the fretboard →
Part of the Triads family.