Inverted Chord Forms

A major or minor chord inversion is simply the major or minor chord played with the with a different sequencing of the root, 3rd and 5th. When the root is on the bottom, we call the chord "Major or Minor, Root Position".

Next, if we move the root to the top, leaving the 3rd on the bottom, then we call the chord "Major, or Minor, 1st Inversion".

Finally, if we raise the root to the middle, and the 3rd to the top, leaving the 5th on the bottom, we call this chord "Major or Minor, 2nd Inversion".

Knowing how to invert chords will add flexibility to your playing, especially when playing harmonic melody with chords. Sometimes the melody is best played as the top note in the chord, sometimes in the middle, and sometimes on the bottom. Think of a singing trio.

Let's look at the most common positions on the fretboard for playing major and minor inversions. These inversions should be thoroughly memorized and rehearsed, so that you can invert any chord in any key at will.

Major Chord Inversions

In these chords, the 3rd degree refers to the major 3rd interval. Play it and listen for it.

Major Root Position (Root, Major 3rd, Perfect 5th)

The root position gets its name from the root note being on the bottom of the 1-3-5 sequence. The root note in this position acts as the anchor, and the harmony rides on top.

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Major First Inversion (Major 3rd, Perfect 5th, Root)

The first inversion gets its name because the root (or 1st degree) is moved from the bottom to the top in a 3-5-1 sequence. This voicing is especially useful when the root note rides on top of the other notes, making it very distinguishable as the highest voice in the trio.

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Major Second Inversion (Perfect 5th, Root, Major 3rd)

The second inversion gets its name because both root and the 5th degree are moved from the bottom to the top in a 5-1-3 sequence. The root note gets buried in the middle and becomes more subtle.

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Minor Chord Inversions

In these chords, the 3rd degree refers to the minor 3rd interval. Play it and listen for it.

Minor Root Position (Root, Minor 3rd, Perfect 5th)

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Minor First Inversion (Minor 3rd, Perfect 5th, Minor 3rd)

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Minor Second Inversion (Perfect 5th, Root, Minor 3rd)

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