Intervals and triads on the fretboard
Guitar · Theory on the fretboard and practice routine · Level 4 · 15 min
On the guitar every interval has a shape: learn the shape and you know the interval in every key. Between two neighbouring strings (except G-B), the shapes are fixed:
| Interval | Same string | Next (higher) string |
|---|---|---|
| Minor third | +3 frets | −2 frets |
| Major third | +4 frets | −1 fret |
| Perfect fourth | +5 frets | same fret |
| Perfect fifth | +7 frets | +2 frets |
| Octave | +12 frets | two strings up, +2 frets |
When a shape crosses the G-B pair, add one fret (the B string is tuned a third above G).
Triads on the top three strings
A triad (root, third, fifth) can be played in three inversions on strings 3-2-1. Here are C major and A minor on the treble strings:
M:4/4 L:1/2 Q:1/4=60 K:C clef=treble-8 "C"[Gce] [ceg] | "Am"[Ace] [cea] |]
These small shapes, anywhere on the neck, are the band rhythm guitarist's tool (funk, pop, reggae): they leave room for the bass and the other guitar.
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