Diminished & Augmented Triads (Altered 5ths)

Major & Minor chords can be altered by simply raising or reducing the 5th note at the top and as a result they will have a new name entirely.

A Diminished Triad is a minor chord with a reduced 5^th (by a half step)

Formula: Root + minor 3rd + flat 5

For instance, D minor triad DFA can be Diminished DFAb (the “A” note has been altered to a Diminished 5^th or reduced 5^th by a half step)

An augmented triad on the other hand is a Major Triad with a Raised 5^th by a half step.

Formula: Root + Major 3rd + sharp 5

Example: C Major Triad “CEG” becomes C Augmented Triad CEG# (The initial “G” note has been altered to an Augmented 5^th or raised 5^th by a half step)

What is the Chord on the 7^th degree of a Diatonic Scale?

We have 7 unique chord positions on a diatonic scale

Recall, we have the Primary Chords (1, 4 & 5 chord) and Secondary Chords (2,3 & 6 chord).

Have ever asked what will the chord on 7^th degree is? What it sounded like?

It actually a Diminished Triad.

Have a quick look at the C Diatonic Scale

C D E F  G A B C

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

B Diminished Triad (BDF) will be the Chord on the 7^th Degree of the C Major Scale. Be aware that the 7 chord is also a Secondary Chord (since it’s just an altered minor chord)

The “1 chord” has a strong pull/affinity to resolve to the “1 chord”.

Play : B dim (BDF) and hear how it is yearning to resolve to the C Major Chord (CEG) and once you play the C Major Chord; there is a satisfaction that comes with it (You are resting at home).

Here is a reference of Diminished Triads on all 12 Keys:

Here is a reference of Augmented Triads on all 12 Keys:

As an exercise please experiment random diminished chords (7 chord) and resolve to the “1 chord” in various keys.