Diatonic chords are like a group of chords that are easy to use in a certain key. The chords that are easy to use when C major is the key are called the diatonic chords of the key of C. Let’s take a look at what diatonic chords are.
Diatonic Triad Chords
First, this is the scale when the key is C major, which is called the ‘C major scale.’ This scale consists of seven notes: perfect unison, major second, major third, perfect fourth, perfect fifth, major sixth, and major seventh. In terms of note names, the order is C, D, E, F, G, A, B.
The C major scale is very easy to understand for beginners because it does not include any sharps or flats. When you look at the sheet music, you will see familiar notes lined up on a blank staff, making it easy to start.
Now, let’s add more depth to this scale. For each note, add two more notes that are each a third above within the scale. Specifically, it looks like this:
- For C, add E and G.
- For D, add F and A.
- For E, add G and B.
- For F, add A and C.
- For G, add B and D.
- For A, add C and E.
- For B, add D and F.
On the sheet music, it looks like the notes are stacked on top of each other. Since each consists of three notes, they form triad chords. Let’s take a look at what kind of chords these three-note combinations create.
First, let’s look at the note do. The notes are C, E, and G. E is a major third, and G is a perfect fifth, forming a major chord. So, this chord is C.
Next, let’s look at the note D. The notes are D, F, and A. F is a minor third above D, and A is a perfect fifth. Therefore, this forms a minor chord. So, this chord is Dm.
If we consider all the notes in the same way, we get C, Dm, Em, G, Am, and so on. Finally, let’s look at the note B. The notes are B, D, and F. D is a minor third above B, and F is a diminished fifth above B. Here, we encounter a note that is not a perfect fifth. Remember this as a special pattern. This chord is Bm with a diminished fifth, called Bm(-5), or B minor flat five.
Diatonic Seventh Chords
Diatonic seventh chords are formed by stacking three notes, each a third above the previous one within the scale, making a total of four notes in the chord. The chords are as follows:
On sheet music, these also look like notes stacked on top of each other. These seven types of chords are called diatonic chords when the key is C. These chords are often used in songs in the key of C.
By using these seventh chords, the harmony becomes more complex and beautiful compared to triads. For example, playing Cmaj7 creates an elegant and sophisticated sound. Playing Dm7 introduces a slightly melancholic atmosphere, and adding G7 increases the anticipation of resolution. Using these chords, you can create various musical landscapes.
Categories of Diatonic Chords
Diatonic chords can be broadly classified into three groups: tonic (C, Am, Em), dominant (G, Bm(-5)), and subdominant (F, Dm). Each of these groups plays a different role, bringing various emotions and movements to a piece of music.
For example, one commonly used chord progression is F→G→C. This is a subdominant→dominant→tonic cadence, creating a very natural flow. The subdominant F adds a bit of tension, the dominant G heightens the expectation of resolution, and finally, the tonic C brings a sense of relief and satisfaction. Using Dm instead of F also works similarly, as it belongs to the same subdominant group.
There are many songs composed entirely of diatonic chords. For instance, in J-POP, the progression F(IV)→G(V)→Em(III)→Am(VI), also known as 4536, is frequently used. This progression provides a sense of familiarity and emotion to the listener, enhancing the melody.
Just by combining these chords in various ways, you can create surprisingly rich music. Pick up your guitar and try composing a song using only diatonic chords. For example, try the following progressions:
C→Am→F→G
Dm→G→C→Am
Em→Am→F→G
Repeating these progressions alone can create a complete song. Adding a melody will make it even more unique. Explore the potential of diatonic chords and enjoy the process of creating your own original songs.