F# Major Triad
Chord Tones: F# Major Triad
Symbol: M, maj, (none) — Formula: 1-3-5
| Degree | Note | Frequency (A=440, Equal) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | F# | 369.994 Hz |
| 3 | A# | 466.164 Hz |
| 5 | C# | 277.183 Hz |
Chord Notation
| Notation Type | Symbol / Value |
|---|---|
| Lead Sheet Symbol | F#M |
| 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 | F# – A# – C# | F# | F# Major Triad |
| First Inversion | A# – C# – F# | A# | F# Major Triad/A# |
| Second Inversion | C# – F# – A# | C# | F# Major Triad/C# |
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.
Common Progressions
The F# 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 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.
| Note | Equal Temp. | Pythagorean | Just Intonation |
|---|---|---|---|
| F# | 369.994 Hz | 371.251 Hz | 367.911 Hz |
| A# | 466.164 Hz | 463.538 Hz | 470.926 Hz |
| C# | 277.183 Hz | 278.437 Hz | 279.067 Hz |
Scales Containing the F# Major Triad
These scales include the F# Major Triad as a diatonic or characteristic chord: