Chord Inversion Calculator

A chord inversion occurs when a note other than the root of the chord is played in the lowest voice (the bass). In root position, the root note sits at the bottom. When we invert the chord, we shift the lowest note to the octave above, making the third, fifth, or seventh the new lowest note. For triads, we have the root position, first inversion (third in the bass), and second inversion (fifth in the bass). For seventh chords, we add a third inversion, placing the seventh note at the bottom.

Let's calculate the notes for a G dominant seventh chord (G7) in its first inversion. First, recall the root notes of a G dominant seventh chord: G (root), B (third), D (fifth), and F (minor seventh). In root position, the notes are G - B - D - F. To create the first inversion, we take the root note (G) and move it to the top of the voicing. This leaves the third (B) as our lowest note. Therefore, the notes of a G dominant seventh in first inversion are B - D - F - G.

Mastering inversions takes time, but these strategies can accelerate your progress: Practice voice leading by finding inversions that require the minimal amount of finger movement between chord changes. Always memorize the root formulas before experimenting with slash chords and upper extensions. Finally, use this calculator to check your homework or double-check complex jazz voicings before writing them into sheet music.