1st Inversion Triads

First inversions of triads are a fundamental concept in music theory that involve altering the position of the notes in a triad. A triad is a set of three notes that are played together and form the basic building block of harmony in Western music. It consists of a root note, a third, and a fifth. The triads can be major, minor, diminished, or augmented, depending on the intervals between the notes.

In the root position of a triad, the root note is the lowest note, with the third and the fifth stacked above it. When a triad is in first inversion, the order of the notes is rearranged so that the third of the triad becomes the lowest note, the fifth moves to the middle, and the root note is placed on top. This alteration changes the overall sound and character of the chord without changing its harmonic function.

For example, consider a C major triad, which consists of the notes C (the root), E (the major third), and G (the perfect fifth). In its root position, the notes are arranged as C-E-G. In the first inversion, the E becomes the lowest note, followed by G, and then C is placed on top, creating the sequence E-G-C.

First inversions are used for various purposes in music, including creating smoother bass lines, transitioning between chords more seamlessly, and adding variety and interest to the harmonic progression of a piece.

Ex.1 The first set (strings 1-3).Ex.2 The second set (strings 2-4). Ex.3 The third set (strings 3-4).Ex.4 The fourth set (strings 4-6).