What is a "chord"?

A chord is defined as a combination of three or more notes played simultaneously. This means that when you hear a chord, multiple pitches are sounding together, creating harmony. Chords are foundational elements in music, often used to support melodies and establish the harmonic structure of a piece.

In music theory, chords can take various forms, such as triads (which consist of three notes) and more complex chords that include additional notes. They contribute not only to the richness of the sound but also create emotional depth and movement within compositions. Understanding chords is crucial for musicians in both performance and composition, as they form the basis of most Western music.