Chord Voicing

Understanding Chord Voicing

Chord voicing refers to how we arrange the notes of a chord. Different voicings can create different textures and colors while still maintaining the chord's basic identity.

Types of Voicings

Close Position

All notes are arranged as closely as possible

C Major:

𝄞C4E4G4

G7:

𝄞G4B4D5F5

Try it on the piano:

C3
C#3
D3
D#3
E3
F3
F#3
G3
G#3
A3
A#3
B3
C4
C#4
D4
D#4
E4
F4
F#4
G4
G#4
A4
A#4
B4
C5
C#5
D5
D#5
E5
F5
F#5
G5
G#5
A5
A#5
B5
C6

Interactive Practice

Which voicing type has all notes arranged as closely as possible?

𝄞C4E4G4

In a Drop 2 voicing, which note is dropped an octave?

𝄞E3C4G4B4

Daily Practice

Master chord voicing with these exercises:

  • Practice playing the same chord in different voicings
  • Experiment with voice leading between different voicings
  • Try voicing progressions using different approaches
  • Listen for different voicings in your favorite songs