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Piano chords for beginners
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Pianoforall
A chord- and rhythm-based piano course, according to the vendor. Built for exactly this approach.
How chords are built
Count semitones (every key, black or white). Major = root + 4 + 3. Minor = root + 3 + 4. Seventh chords add another note on top.
The eight starter chords
| Chord | Notes |
|---|---|
| C | C E G |
| G | G B D |
| F | F A C |
| Am | A C E |
| Em | E G B |
| Dm | D F A |
| D | D F♯ A |
| A | A C♯ E |
Pianoforall
A chord- and rhythm-based piano course, according to the vendor. Built for exactly this approach.
Progressions to practise
- C – G – Am – F (the “four-chord” progression)
- Am – F – C – G
- C – Am – F – G (50s progression)
Learn inversions so your hand moves only a key or two between chords.
Daily 15-minute routine
- 3 min: play each chord, eyes closed.
- 5 min: one progression with a metronome at 60 bpm.
- 5 min: add a left-hand root note.
- 2 min: play along with a song.
Common questions
What is the easiest piano chord?
C major: all white keys, C–E–G.
How many chords do I need to know?
Eight common chords let you play a large share of popular songs.
Should I learn chords or notes first?
For playing songs quickly, chords; for classical repertoire, reading first.
What we’d look at next
Pianoforall
A chord- and rhythm-based piano course, according to the vendor. Built for exactly this approach.
Not sure which fits? Take the 30-second quiz or see our comparisons.
Related comparisons: Pianoforall vs Singorama · Best online music courses for adult beginners
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Get the free PDF
A 4-week practice plan for piano, guitar or voice: how to split 15 minutes a day, warm-ups, a metronome routine and a progress log.