Bb Major Triad
Chord Tones: Bb Major Triad
Symbol: M, maj, (none) — Formula: 1-3-5
| Degree | Note | Frequency (A=440, Equal) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bb | 466.164 Hz |
| 3 | D | 293.665 Hz |
| 5 | F | 349.228 Hz |
Chord Notation
| Notation Type | Symbol / Value |
|---|---|
| Lead Sheet Symbol | BbM |
| All Common Symbols | M, maj, (none) |
| Interval Formula | 1-3-5 |
| Harmonic Category | consonant |
Roman numeral (e.g. I, IV, V) and Nashville Number notation are key-dependent. See Keys pages for chord function within specific keys.
Inversions
| Inversion | Notes (low to high) | Bass Note | Slash Notation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root Position | Bb – D – F | Bb | Bb Major Triad |
| First Inversion | D – F – Bb | D | Bb Major Triad/D |
| Second Inversion | F – Bb – D | F | Bb Major Triad/F |
Harmonic Function
The Bb major chord commonly functions as the subtonic (♭VII) in C major or subdominant in F major. Its harmonic role varies by key — in major keys it provides stable harmonic grounding.
The major triad is the most fundamental chord in Western music, built from the root, major third, and perfect fifth. It has a bright, stable, and resolved sound.
Common Progressions
The Bb Major Triad frequently appears in these progression patterns (shown in Roman numeral notation relative to key):
I-IV-V-II-V-vi-IV
Songs Featuring the Major Triad
Well-known songs where the Bb Major Triad — or this chord type — plays a prominent role:
- Let It Be – Beatles
- Don't Stop Believin' – Journey
- Imagine – John Lennon
Tuning Frequencies Across Temperaments
Frequencies shown at A=440 Hz. View full temperament data for any note.
| Note | Equal Temp. | Pythagorean | Just Intonation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bb | 466.164 Hz | 463.538 Hz | 470.926 Hz |
| D | 293.665 Hz | 293.332 Hz | 294.329 Hz |
| F | 349.228 Hz | 347.654 Hz | 348.834 Hz |
Scales Containing the Bb Major Triad
These scales include the Bb Major Triad as a diatonic or characteristic chord: