🎵 Chord Inverter
Generate chord inversions from any chord input. Enter a chord and see all possible inversions (1st, 2nd, root position) with note names and frequency information.
Your Result:
Am7 → All Inversions
Root position + 1st, 2nd, 3rd inversions
🎼 Chord Analysis: Am7
Root Position
C5 (523 Hz)
E5 (659 Hz)
G5 (784 Hz)
1st Inversion
E4 (330 Hz)
G4 (392 Hz)
A4 (440 Hz)
2nd Inversion
G4 (392 Hz)
A4 (440 Hz)
C5 (523 Hz)
3rd Inversion
A4 (440 Hz)
C5 (523 Hz)
E5 (659 Hz)
🎓 Music Theory
Inversion: When a chord is rearranged so a note other than the root is in the bass (lowest position). Each inversion creates a different harmonic color and voice leading opportunity.
How to Use This Chord Inverter
How to Use the Chord Inverter
🎵 Basic Chord Entry
Enter any chord in standard notation. The tool recognizes common chord types including:
- Triads: C, Am, F#dim, Gaug
- 7th Chords: Dm7, Gmaj7, E7, Bbdim7
- Extended: Cmaj9, Am11, F13
- Suspended: Csus2, Gsus4, Asus2
🎼 Understanding the Results
Each inversion shows the chord with a different note in the bass:
- Root Position: Original chord with root note lowest
- 1st Inversion: Third of the chord in bass
- 2nd Inversion: Fifth of the chord in bass
- 3rd Inversion: Seventh in bass (for 7th chords)
🔧 Advanced Options
Customize the output with optional settings:
- Octave Selection: Choose starting octave for frequency calculations
- Note Notation: Display sharps, flats, or context-appropriate accidentals
- Frequency Display: Show Hz values for each note in the inversions
- Root Override: Manually specify root note if auto-detection needs correction
How It Works
How the Chord Inverter Works
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🎯 Chord Recognition
The tool parses your chord input to identify the root note, chord quality (major, minor, 7th, etc.), and any extensions or alterations. It uses standard music theory rules to build the complete note set.
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🎼 Note Generation
Based on the chord type, the system generates all constituent notes using interval patterns. For example, a major 7th chord uses the pattern 1-3-5-7 (root, major third, perfect fifth, major seventh).
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🔄 Inversion Calculation
Each inversion is created by rotating the chord tones, placing a different note in the bass position. The tool generates all possible inversions based on the number of unique notes in the chord.
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📊 Frequency Mapping
Using equal temperament tuning (A4 = 440 Hz), the tool calculates exact frequencies for each note in each inversion. This helps with understanding pitch relationships and instrument ranges.
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🎨 Visual Organization
Results are displayed in an organized grid showing each inversion with note names, frequencies, and theoretical context. This makes it easy to compare different voicings and understand their relationships.
When You Might Need This
- • Piano players learning chord voicings and smooth voice leading between progressions
- • Guitar students understanding how chord shapes change when notes are rearranged
- • Music theory homework and analysis of chord inversions in classical compositions
- • Songwriters exploring different harmonic colors for the same chord progression
- • Jazz musicians studying rootless voicings and upper structure triads
- • Music teachers demonstrating inversion concepts with visual note layouts
- • Composers arranging parts for different instruments using optimal chord voicings
- • Students practicing ear training by listening to different chord inversions
- • Music producers understanding frequency ranges when layering chord instruments
- • Church organists and pianists finding practical fingerings for hymn arrangements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a chord inversion and why does it matter?
A chord inversion occurs when a note other than the root is placed in the bass (lowest position). This changes the harmonic color, creates smoother voice leading between chords, and can make progressions sound less predictable. For example, C major (C-E-G) becomes E-G-C in first inversion, creating a different sound and easier transitions to certain other chords.
How many inversions can a chord have?
A chord can have as many inversions as it has unique notes. A triad (3 notes) has root position plus 2 inversions. A 7th chord (4 notes) has root position plus 3 inversions. For example, Cmaj7 (C-E-G-B) can be arranged as root position, 1st inversion (E-G-B-C), 2nd inversion (G-B-C-E), or 3rd inversion (B-C-E-G).
Can I use this tool for complex jazz chords with extensions?
Yes! The tool supports major, minor, diminished, augmented, 7th, major 7th, suspended, and many extended chords. Try entering chords like 'Cmaj9', 'Am11', 'F#dim7', or 'Bbsus4'. Complex jazz voicings often use specific inversions to create the desired sound and voice leading, making this tool valuable for jazz study and composition.
Why do the frequencies matter for chord inversions?
Frequencies help you understand the actual pitch relationships and register placement of notes. Lower frequencies (bass notes) provide harmonic foundation, while higher frequencies add color and tension. Different inversions place emphasis on different frequency ranges, affecting how the chord sits in a mix and how it resonates on acoustic instruments.
How do I choose which inversion to use in my music?
Choose inversions based on: 1) Voice leading - pick inversions that create smooth movement between chords, 2) Bass line - use inversions to create interesting bass melodies, 3) Register - consider what range works best for your instrument, 4) Harmonic color - each inversion has a slightly different character. Root position sounds most stable, while inversions can sound more flowing or suspended.