- Why do certain chords sound good together?
- Why do certain notes make up chords?
- Why do certain chord progressions work?
- Why do some chords sound bad?
Why do certain chords sound good together?
The chords that sound good together are made up of notes that makes sense harmonically. The notes of these chords are derived from a scale (usually the Major scale). The chords use something called diatonic harmony.
Why do certain notes make up chords?
The reason for these notes being in the chords themselves is that they have to resonate in harmony when being played together. If not, they will sound “off” and will not be pleasant to the ear. This is called chord-embellishment theory.
Why do certain chord progressions work?
If a chord is at least three notes played together, a chord progression is at least 2 chords played one after another. This sequence is usually repeated as a verse, chorus, or bridge. A chord progression works by creating an emotional journey between its beginning and end.
Why do some chords sound bad?
Out-of-tune: even one string slightly out of tune can make strummed chords sound bad. Bad technique: pressing too hard on the strings or hitting the strings too hard can make chords sound out-of-tune. Bad intonation: if your guitar's intonation is out, chords will sound bad when you strum.