Diminished chords are dissonant and have an evil, harsh sound. Think of zombies coming after you. Even though diminished chords aren’t used nearly as often as major and minor chords, you might find yourself using them in your compositions regardless.
You can build any and every diminished chord by following this simple formula...
Every diminished chord needs a root (1), a third (3), and a fifth (5). The numbers in (parentheses) represent the distance between the intervals measured in half steps. For instance, the distance between the root (1) and the third (3) is 3 half steps. The distance between the third (3) and the fifth (5) is 3 half steps.
Learning how to build and memorize diminished chords is an essential part of being a professional musician and songwriter. If you are new to building diminished chords, or simply wish you further your education on the subject, then pick up a copy of Music Theory For The Modern Rockin' Metalhead in the online store.
You can get a head start by downloading sample chapters here.
