Piano chords are played by pressing three notes simultaneously. Technically, any three random notes will form a triad, but knowing which combination of notes to hit to form pleasing music is why most people learn how to play piano chords. All music is basically made up of three elements: rhythm, harmony, and melody. Multiple note combinations create harmony and are vital to music that is both complex and pleasing to the ear.
There are many different types of chords, but some are more common than others depending on the type of music that is being played. A major triad is based on a major scale. Playing the first, third, and fifth degrees of a major scale together will create a major triad. In C major the notes played would be C, E, and G. Major scales create a soothing and generally happy sound.
Similarly, minor chords are based off of minor scales. In a minor scale the third degree of the major scale is dropped by one half step. The notes played for a C minor triad are C, E flat, and G. Minor scales create darker, sadder sounding harmonies.
The next two types of note combinations focus on the fifth scale degree. Diminished chords have a lowered third and fifth, and have a dark, minor sound. Augmented ones do the opposite and raise the fifth one half step. They can be played with either a minor or major third.
Beyond these basic four types are many others that are found in specific types of music. These non-traditional note combinations can be more difficult to learn and are often a combination of four notes played together. Chords that feature sevenths, fifths, and ninths are more common in jazz and blues.
All chords can be inverted. Inversions are switching the order that the notes are played in. For example, the C major triad is made up of the notes C, E, and G. The first inversion of this chord would make E the bass note and move C to the top. The notes would be played E, G, and C. Inversions can dramatically change the way notes sound when played together.
Knowing how to play piano chords allows the player to lean much more complex and interesting music. Having knowledge of these chords and a strong fundamental understanding of what they look like and how they are played can make learning new pieces much easier.
For the best advice on all aspects of learning to play the piano visit How to Play Piano Chords for all you need to know. Alternatively, read The Basics Of How To Play Piano Chords for more information.