E MAJOR - PIANO
Chord composition
| I | III | V |
|---|---|---|
| Root | Major third | Perfect fifth |
| E | G# | B |
ALL ABOUT THE E MAJOR CHORD
Chord Composition
The E Major chord is composed of 3 notes :
- E (Root)
- G# (Major third)
- B (Perfect fifth)
These notes form a major triad, characterized by its bright and stable sound.
How to play E Major on piano
On piano, the E Major chord is played by positioning your fingers on the keys corresponding to the notes E, G#, B.
- 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 E 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 E Major
The E 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 E Major
This chord appears in many well-known pieces :
- Wild Thing - The Troggs
- Stand by Me - Ben E. King
- La Bamba - Ritchie Valens
- Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison