• Like intervals, triads can be inverted by moving the lowest note up an octave.
  • The lowest note, called the bass note, determines the name of the inversion.
  • When the lowest note is the root of the chord, the triad is in root position.
  • Next, let's invert the chord.
  • The bass note is now the third of the chord.
  • This is called first inversion.
  • Let's invert the chord again.
  • Now, the fifth is the lowest note of the chord.
  • This is called second inversion.
  • Let's invert the chord one more time.
  • Notice that the triad returns to root position.
  • Use this chart for reference to triad inversion.
Content licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License