Triangular

Lesson Four: Triangular Chords

Triangular chords are three-note chords that are played in a triangular pattern with the right hand, while the left plays melody. I learned this technique from Tim Seaman.

As usual, we'll demonstrate with "Simple Gifts." Click for a MIDI file or sheet music (GIF).

This technique requires a little chord theory. You need to know about chords either by visual patterns and by ear, or by their names and structure. In particular, you'll need to learn some triangular patterns. I'll give you two here, but you may want to check out my chords article for more information, including a lesson on three-note chord shapes.

For "Simple Gifts," you'll need at least two chords, G and D. (If you like, you can experiment later to find additional chords.)

A G chord is made up of the notes G, B, and D. The diagram shows one way to play this chord: first the D on the bass bridge, one above the marked C, then the marked G on the right treble bridge, then the B two courses higher.

triangular D chord diagram. A D chord is made up of the notes D, F#, and A. This diagram shows one way to play this chord: first the same D on the bass bridge, then shift the other two notes down a course -- the F# one below the marked G on the right treble, then the A one above that G.

The rhythmic pattern is two eighth notes followed by a quarter note. How long you rest (wait) between patterns depends on the meter of the tune. "Simple Gifts" is in 4/4 time, so you'll won't rest at all in order to play two patterns per measure; for a tune in 3/4 time, you'd rest for the duration of a quarter note in order to play one pattern per measure.

Start by practicing these two chords in 4/4 time, just the right hand. Play one chord four times, then the other, then twice each, then once each. As you learn more about chords, add new chords and new shapes to your practice.

You might want to record yourself playing just the melody with your left hand. Use this recording to practice the right hand part, so that you can figure out when to switch chords and what variations of the chords you want to use. In the example, I use just two chords, one shape for each, for the first time through, then add a little variation.

Now try putting the two parts together. It may help to work one phrase at a time, then put the phrases together. Slow down as much as necessary to keep the rhythm steady.

Conclusion

These four techniques are simplified, and the example MIDIs and sheet music, too. Sometimes simple is lovely, and it's a great way to start something new. Sometimes, after a while, you'll want to vary how and when you use these techniques. You might use one for only one section of a tune, or use little bits of each technique throughout an arrangement, or expand the technique in a new direction -- like doing long arpeggios instead of three-note triangular chords, or changing the root-fifth idea into a walking bassline with a drone.

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