The Hidden Identity of Piano Chords | Instant Chord Recognition

We're all looking for a way to define things. When we can define what something is, it helps us to have more understanding and less questions about it. This is especially true of chords. But like myself and other musicians, there are times when defining chords can be elusive.

The reason for such a dilemma is that there is a hidden identity of piano chords...if you look close enough at them.  I am of course referring to chords on a piano keyboard because unlike fretted instruments such as guitar, they're identified differently.

We have combinations of black and white keys which some aspiring piano players think are a curse. But the more I learn, I think of as a blessing.  If you're well versed in chords on the piano, you identify them at face value and understand their context in a piece of music. But what about the hidden identity of piano chords? There's more than one way to view any chord. That's why I want to share you this hidden identity of piano chords as I like to refer to them.

A Chord is recognized as three or more notes played in unison. Take C Major triad as an example. It consists of the root, 3rd and 5th intervals.

But let's break down this simple Major triad and take a closer look at it.

Between C and E is a Major third interval. This alone defines the C Major Chord (without the 5th).

Between E and G is a minor third interval. If you look at just these two notes, this actually has the elements of an E minor chord (without the 5th).

Can you see how easy it is to find the hidden identity of a chord?

Let's take a look at G Major triad.Between G and B is a Major third interval defining a G Major Chord.

Between B and D is a minor third interval. Can you name the hidden identity of this chord?

That's right, it's B minor.

Let's analyze the C minor chord to find its hidden identity.

Between C and E flat is a Minor third interval. This alone defines the C Minor Chord.

Between E flat and G is a Major third interval. These are the elements of an E flat Major chord.

Let's take a look at one more triad.

The D minor triad has a minor third interval between D and F which defines D minor. Between F and A is a Major third interval defining the F Major chord.