Major triads have three notes and they are the most basic type of major chord that we can learn. This basic D# major chord can help us to produce a bright, happy and uplifting sound. This chord is also the basis for the more advanced chords like D# major 6th, D# major 7th, D# major 9th & D# major 13th chords as well as all of the D# dominant chords.
When we are learning how to construct a basic D# major piano chord, there are a few different ways that we can go about it. For example, we can use a number of formulas to help us construct this basic D# major triad, as shown here below:
How to construct a D# major piano chord
Formula 1 - Learn the D# scale and then play notes 1-3-5 from this scale (see below). Formula 2 - Start from the D# note, count up 4 half steps (G note) and then count up 3 half steps (A# note). Formula 3 - Start from the D# note, count up a major third (G note) and then count up a minor third (A# note).
D# major piano chord - How to play
To construct a D# major piano chord, we will be using the major scale approach. A D# major chord is made up of the 1-3-5 notes of the D# major scale so to play a D# major chord, you just need to play the notes D#-G-A# together.
D# MAJOR SCALE
D# MAJOR CHORD
D# major piano chord - Inversions
Once you have become familiar with the basic D# major chord (shown above), you are ready to start learning its inversions. For example, we now know that the D# major chord can be played with the notes D#-G-A# but we can also play this chord as G-A#-D# or A#-D#-G. In other words, there are two inversions for the D# major piano chord:
D# MAJOR - 1ST INVERSION
D# MAJOR - 2ND INVERSION
Pro Tip - Learning your major chord inversions can help you to achieve good voice leading.
How to use major piano chords
If you are someone who is just starting to learn chords on piano, we recommend that you start by learning all your major triads and minor triads. This will help to give you a basic piano chords vocabulary and at this point, you can start combining these basic chords to help you create nice sounding music.