To know

An arpeggio is a melodic pattern constructed solely from the notes of a chord.
For example, the C-Major triad consists of the notes C, E, and G, which are represented by the degrees 1, 3, and 5 in the C-Major scale.
One of the technique of arpeggios involves playing each note of the chord individually, either in ascending or descending order.

Goals

Learn to deconstruct a three-note chord and place each of these notes on a musical scale within an octave range.

Tips for success

In this exercise on the Major perfect chord in C, the note C is the tonic (1st degree of the scale), which gives its name to the chord and is represented by the number 1. The note E is the 3rd degree, represented by the number 3. The note G is the 5th degree, represented by the number 5.
Try to recall the previous exercises on interval recognition. They will help you to remember the melody.
You may like to use your instrument or voice to sound an arpeggio on the Major perfect chord.

Musical examples

Sir Duke (Transposed to C Major for this example) -
R&B/Soul Stevie Wonder
This arpeggio played by the trumpets features the notes of the C-Major triad: C, E, G, C.

Sir Duke (transposed to C minor for this example) -
R&B/Soul Stevie Wonder
Here's how the motif would sound if it had been played instead with a C-minor chord.

Sir Duke -
R&B/Soul Stevie Wonder
The original introduction is built on four chords: C Major, A minor, A♭ Major, and G major.

Symphony No.35 in D Major, K. 385 "Haffner" : 1. Allegro con spirito - Berliner Philharmoniker, Herbert von Karajan
Classical music Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
This finale by Mozart is based on the D-Major triad, first played in a descending and ascending arpeggio, and then repeated as chords.

EXERCISE INFORMATION