A#5

A# Power chord

Octaves

Musical context

How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.

Theory

General info

Full name
A# Power chord
Symbol
A#5
Root
A#
Quality
Power chord

Chord notes

1A#root
5E#perfect 5th

Functions & resolutions

Features

Character
No 3rd, mode-neutral
Characteristic interval
Perfect 5th (P5, no third)
Description
The chord contains only root and perfect 5th. Without a 3rd it defines neither major nor minor quality.
Application
  • Rock and metal with distortion
  • Rhythm guitar
  • Punk and hardcore

Voicing & structure

Root position

v1A#(A#4)Bass
root
v2E#(E#5)P5from A#

Harmony

Compatible scales

All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.

This chord on guitar 🎸

See how A#5 looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmBbmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
2 flats (Bb, Eb)

Practice

Keyboard Trainer

Reinforce it in practice — play and name notes on the interactive keyboard.

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Test yourself

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Frequently Asked Questions