The A diminished chord is a tense and unstable chord that creates a sense of suspense and urgency in music. Its notes, A, C, and E♭, form a diminished triad that is characterized by its minor third and diminished fifth intervals, giving it a dark and dramatic sound. This chord is commonly used in classical, jazz, and contemporary compositions to add tension, lead smoothly to resolutions, or provide a striking contrast within a progression. The A diminished chord offers musicians a powerful tool for injecting emotional intensity and harmonic complexity into their music.
Name: A diminished chord
Symnonyms:: A diminished triad
Notes: A, C, E♭
Intervals: 1, ♭3, ♭5
Chord symbol: Ao
Alternative symbols: Adim, Am(♭5), Am♭5
Type: Triad (three-note chord)
A diminished chord on the Staff
A diminished chord on Piano
A diminished chord on Guitar
A diminished chord on Ukulele
Rowan Ellis is a musician and educator with a passion for exploring the language of harmony and melody. With years of experience across classical, jazz, and contemporary styles, Rowan breaks down music theory into clear, practical insights. His goal is to make chords and scales less intimidating and more inspiring for every musician.