What is Chord Inversion?

A chord inversion occurs when the notes of a chord are rearranged so that a note other than the root becomes the lowest pitch. In basic chord structure, the root of the chord is normally the lowest note, which is called the root position. When another chord tone such as the third or fifth is placed in the bass instead, the chord is considered an inversion.

For example, a C major chord contains the notes C, E, and G. In root position, C is the lowest note. If E becomes the lowest note, the chord is in first inversion, and if G becomes the lowest note, it is in second inversion. The chord still contains the same notes, but the different bass note changes the overall sound and feel of the harmony.

Chord inversions are widely used in music to create smoother transitions between chords and more interesting bass lines. By changing which note appears in the bass, composers and musicians can shape the flow of harmony while maintaining the same underlying chord structure.