Eb

Q: What notes are in the Eb chord?

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

Q: How do I build Eb 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 Eb 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 Eb?

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.

Eb Major

Octaves

Musical context

ChordEb majorTriad

ArpeggioEb majorBroken triad

ScaleEb major7 notes

KeyEb majorMajor key

ProgressionPop axisSequence

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

Theory

General info

Full name: Eb Major
Symbol: Eb
Root: Eb
Quality: Major

Chord notes

1Ebroot

3Gmajor 3rd

5Bbperfect 5th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key: ITonic (I)Eb major
Stability / tension: Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions: AbAb Major BbBb Major CmC Minor
Main resolution: Ebsource
BbBb Major
Major chord Eb is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
Other resolutions: Ebsource
Deceptive resolution
CmC Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
Ebsource
Modal resolution
DbDb Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
Ebsource
Jazz reharmonization
Ebmaj7Eb 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).
Ebsource
Functional resolution
BbBb Major
As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Substitutions

Parallel: EbmEb Minor
Relative: CmC Minor
Mediant: GmG 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