1. Root Position:
In both piano and guitar, the root position of a chord is the lowest note of the chord. This note determines the chord's name and establishes the tonal center.
2. Chord Structure:
Both piano and guitar chords are built using stacks of thirds. For instance, a basic C major triad consists of the notes C, E, and G, which are stacked in intervals of thirds (C to E is a major third, and E to G is a minor third). This principle applies to more complex chords as well.
3. Inversions:
Inversions occur when the root note is not the lowest note in the chord. Both piano and guitar can play chords in different inversions by changing the order of the notes. For example, a C major chord can be played in first inversion with E as the lowest note (E-G-C) or in second inversion with G as the lowest note (G-C-E).
4. Chord Voicings:
Chord voicings refer to the specific arrangement of notes within a chord. While piano chords are played vertically (with all notes struck simultaneously), guitar chords are typically played horizontally (with the notes plucked one after another). Guitarists use different fingerings and techniques to create various voicings for the same chord.
5. Chord Progressions:
Both piano and guitar players use chord progressions to create a sense of movement and progression in a piece of music. Common chord progressions, such as I-IV-V-I (in the key of C, this would be C-F-G-C), are used in various genres of music and can be played on either instrument.
Remember that while piano chords and guitar chords share similarities in their functions and structures, they differ in their physical setup and playing techniques. Guitar chords often require more dexterity and coordination due to the fingerings involved, while piano chords can provide richer textures and harmonies with their multiple keys.