D MAJOR - UKULELE
Open position
Chord composition
| I | III | V |
|---|---|---|
| Root | Major third | Perfect fifth |
| D | F# | A |
ALL ABOUT THE D MAJOR CHORD
Chord Composition
The D Major chord is composed of 3 notes :
- D (Root)
- F# (Major third)
- A (Perfect fifth)
These notes form a major triad, characterized by its bright and stable sound.
How to play D Major on ukulele
On ukulele, the D Major chord is played by positioning your fingers on the keys corresponding to the notes D, F#, A.
- 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 D 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 D Major
The D 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.
Famous Songs Using D Major
This chord appears in many well-known pieces :
- Wonderwall - Oasis
- Knocking on Heaven's Door - Bob Dylan
- Sweet Home Alabama - Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Free Fallin' - Tom Petty
- Best Day of My Life - American Authors