Minor Chords
Let’s look at how to play an Am (A minor) chord on the piano. We’ll also learn the pattern for building any minor chord.
What Are Minor Chords?
Minor chords are built using the first, third and fifth notes of the matching minor scale.
You can learn how to build a minor scale here.
Another way to build minor chords is to find the matching major chord and lower the middle note 1/2 step.
How to Play an Am Chord
So to build an Am chord on the piano, we’ll find the first, third and fifth notes of an A minor scale: A – C – E
We could also take an A major chord (A – C♯ – E) and lower the middle note 1/2 step: A – C – E
So to play an Am chord, we’ll play:
A – C – E

You can use this pattern to build any minor chord on the piano. Find the first, third and fifth notes of the matching minor scale, or take the matching major chord and lower the middle note 1/2 step.
Other Chord Types
There are many other chord types you can learn. Here are some others:
Major
Augmented
Diminished
Second
Minor Second
Suspended
Fifth
Sixth
Minor Sixth
Seventh
Minor Seventh
Major Seventh
Ninth
Minor Ninth
Major Ninth
Conclusion
Now you know how to build an Am chord on the piano, and you can use this pattern to build any minor chord.
Minor chords add a nice depth and richness to music, and lend themselves well to more somber and reflective piano playing. Learning to play these chords lays a wonderful foundation for you at the piano!
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