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Build a Chord

Choose piano keys to build a chord. Progress from your first triads to advanced harmony.

Choose your challenge

DifficultyMode — Practice or Test/HomeworkQuestions

Select one key for each different chord tone; use the requested note in the bass. Any octave and spacing are accepted if the chord tones and lowest note are correct. One point per complete chord. Extended chords include every lower extension. Keyboard answers accept enharmonic equivalents; feedback uses the harmonic spelling. This checks chord construction, not four-part voice leading.

Learning guide · need a hand?

Build a Chord: a quick guide

Your goal

Choose piano keys to make the chord you are asked for. Listen to how changing just one note can change its sound.

Try an example

C–E–G makes C major. Change E to E♭ and you have C minor. There are four half step gaps from C to E, but only three from C to E♭.

Easy to mix up

Count the gaps between keys, including black keys. An inversion uses the same chord notes with a different one at the bottom.

A tip for your next go

Start with three-note chords, called triads. Listen to each key you choose, then try inversions or seventh chords when you are ready.