The notes of a triad can appear in three arrangements: root position, 1st inversion, and 2nd inversion.

Triad Inversions with Figures

The figures (numerals) underneath each triad indicate the intervals above the lowest note. A root position triad features a fifth and third above the lowest note. A first inversion triad features a sixth and third above the lowest note. A second inversion triad features a sixth and fourth above the lowest note. Understanding these interval patterns is essential in finding these chord shapes fluently at the keyboard.

Practice triad inversions as chords (blocked) and arpeggiated (broken). Pay careful attention to fingering. Transpose to all keys, maintaining the same fingering.

Right Hand

22.1 | Blocked

22.2 | Broken

Left Hand

22.3 | Blocked

22.4 | Broken