Inversions

So far, all of the chords have been built with the root as the lowest note. But you can create subtle variations in sound by reordering the notes so that a different note is at the bottom. This process is called inversion.

A triad with the root as the lowest note is said to be in root position. Here is a C major triad in root position:

First inversion

A first inversion triad has the third of the chord as the lowest note. The root is then transposed up an octave.

Build a first inversion C major triad:

Inversions are sometimes written using slashes. For example, you can call the C major triad in first inversion C/E ("C over E").

Second inversion

A second inversion triad has the fifth of the chord as the lowest note.

Build a second inversion C major triad:

You can call the C major triad in second inversion C/G ("C over G").

Compare the sound of the root position, first inversion, and second inversion triads. Each inversion has a slightly different "flavor."