B MAJOR - PIANO
Chord composition
| I | III | V |
|---|---|---|
| Root | Major third | Perfect fifth |
| B | D# | F# |
ALL ABOUT THE B MAJOR CHORD
Chord Composition
The B Major chord is composed of 3 notes :
- B (Root)
- D# (Major third)
- F# (Perfect fifth)
These notes form a major triad, characterized by its bright and stable sound.
How to play B Major on piano
On piano, the B Major chord is played by positioning your fingers on the keys corresponding to the notes B, D#, F#.
- Right hand - Root position: use standard fingering with thumb on the root. This basic position is essential for all pianists.
- Inversions: allow smooth transitions between chords. Practice the 1st inversion (third in bass) and 2nd inversion (fifth in bass) to enrich your progressions.
- Left hand - Accompaniment: often played in root position for accompaniment, or in broken octaves for a more dynamic effect.
- Jazz voicings: jazz pianists use rootless voicings for a more sophisticated sound, letting the bass play the root.
Piano tips
To master the B Major chord on keyboard:
- Hand posture: keep fingers curved and wrists supple, never stiff
- Uniform pressure: ensure all notes sound with equal intensity
- Sustain pedal: use it to enrich the sound and create legato progressions
- Practice inversions: they are essential for smooth transitions
- Hand independence: work each hand separately before combining them
Popular chord progressions with B Major
The B Major chord naturally integrates into several common progressions:
- I-IV-V progression: the basis of blues and classic rock
- I-V-vi-IV progression: omnipresent in modern pop
- Perfect cadence (V-I): fundamental harmonic resolution
Piano styles
Classical: use inversions to create smooth voices and avoid leaps.
Jazz: enrich with extensions (9th, 13th) for more sophistication.
Pop: combine left hand in octaves and right hand in full chords.
Famous Songs Using B Major
This chord appears in many well-known pieces :
- Don't Stop Believin' - Journey
- Jessie's Girl - Rick Springfield