Bb

Q: What notes are in the Bb chord?

The Bb chord (Bb Major) contains: Bb, D, F. Its interval structure is shown above in the Theory section.

Q: How do I build Bb on the keyboard?

Take the root and add the remaining chord tones following the interval formula. The highlight shows chord content, while the inversion control changes which chord tone is in the bass.

Q: Which keys is Bb found in?

The chord acts as a diatonic degree in several keys — they are marked on the circle of fifths in the "Harmonic context" block.

Q: What can I substitute for Bb?

A substitution depends on harmonic function and voice leading, not only on shared tones. Computed options appear in the "Substitutions" block and should be checked in context.

Bb Major

Octaves

Musical context

ChordBb majorTriad

ArpeggioBb majorBroken triad

ScaleBb major7 notes

KeyBb majorMajor key

ProgressionPop axisSequence

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

Theory

General info

Full name: Bb Major
Symbol: Bb
Root: Bb
Quality: Major

Chord notes

1Bbroot

3Dmajor 3rd

5Fperfect 5th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key: VDominant (V)Eb major
Stability / tension: Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions: EbEb Major FF Major GmG Minor
Main resolution: Bbsource
FF Major
Major chord Bb is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
Other resolutions: Bbsource
Deceptive resolution
GmG Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
Bbsource
Modal resolution
AbAb Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
Bbsource
Jazz reharmonization
Bbmaj7Bb Major 7
In jazz, a major chord is enriched to maj7, 6/9, or add9 and can smoothly transition into a ii-V of another key (modulation).
Bbsource
Functional resolution
FF Major
As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Substitutions

Parallel: BbmBb Minor
Relative: GmG Minor
Mediant: DmD Minor

Features

Character: Major, stable
Characteristic interval: Major third (M3)
Description: The major 3rd defines the major quality, while the perfect 5th makes the triad stable.
Application: I, IV, V in major keys
Pop, rock, folk
Cadential chords