Creating major chords is simple if you follow this basic formula. A major chord is composed of three notes: the root note, the major third, and the perfect fifth. To build a major chord:

 Start with the root note

• , which is the note you want the chord to be named after.

From the root

• count up four half steps (or semitones) to find the major third.

From the major third

• count up three half steps (or semitones) to find the perfect fifth.

For example, to create a C major chord:

•  The root is C.
• The major third is E (four half steps up from C).
• The perfect fifth is G (three half steps up from E).

And there you have it—a C major chord!   Happy playing!