AB MAJOR - UKULELE
Bass position 5
Chord composition
| I | III | V |
|---|---|---|
| Root | Major third | Perfect fifth |
| G# | C | D# |
ALL ABOUT THE AB MAJOR CHORD
Chord Composition
The Ab Major chord is composed of 3 notes :
- G# (Root)
- C (Major third)
- D# (Perfect fifth)
These notes form a major triad, characterized by its bright and stable sound.
How to play Ab Major on ukulele
On ukulele, the Ab Major chord is played by positioning your fingers on the keys corresponding to the notes G#, C, D#.
- 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.
Ukulele tips
To master the Ab 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 Ab Major
The Ab 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
Ukulele 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.