Music Glossary: chords

The foundational three-chord major-key progression: I–IV–V. Core to blues, rock, country, and early R&B. Supports quick-change and turnaround varia... more

A classic four-chord progression derived from the major scale: I–V–IV–V. Often used as a repetitive vamp or turnaround in major-key blues, rock, an... more

Jazz/cadential staple: ii–V–I. Often extended with 7ths/alterations (e.g., Dm7–G7alt–Cmaj7). Enables smooth voice-leading via functional predominan... more

Six‑string plucked chordophone; steel/nylon variants; strumming and fingerstyle textures. more

A sequence of chords organized over time to imply tonal direction, tension, and release. Progressions may follow functional harmony (tonic–predomin... more

Consistent extensions/alterations syntax (e.g., Cmaj7(11)/C); avoid mixed systems. more

Consistent chord font and syntax (e.g., Cmaj7, CΔ7, avoid mixing). more

Identifying chord progressions and cadences from listening. more

Rate of chord changes; faster in pre/chorus to increase momentum. more

The specific arrangement of chord tones across instruments/strings and registers; affects color, clarity, and voice‑leading. more

Allocation and spacing of chord tones across instruments/registers for clarity and color. more