F♯ Major Triad

Chord Tones: F♯ Major Triad

Symbol: M, maj, (none) — Formula: 1-3-5

Chord Notation

Roman numeral (e.g. I, IV, V) and Nashville Number notation are key-dependent. See Keys pages for chord function within specific keys.

Inversions

Harmonic Function

The F♯ major chord commonly functions as the tritone substitution in C major or tonic 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. The F♯ Major Triad specifically contains 3 notes: F♯, A♯, C♯ (formula: 1-3-5). On piano, F#-rooted chords place the root on a black key, creating hand positions that many pianists find ergonomically comfortable for fast passages. Progressive rock, jazz fusion, and electronic music use F#-rooted chords to create unexpected harmonic shifts and chromatic modulations.

Common Progressions

The F♯ Major Triad frequently appears in these progression patterns (shown in Roman numeral notation relative to key):

• I-IV-V-I
• I-V-vi-IV

Songs Featuring the Major Triad

Well-known songs where the F♯ 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.

Scales Containing the F♯ Major Triad

These scales include the F♯ Major Triad as a diatonic or characteristic chord: