Guitar arpeggio
C# Major Guitar Arpeggio
C# Major is a three-note arpeggio built from C#, E#, and G#. It is also commonly called C# Major Triad. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Chord tones
- C#, E#, G#
- Formula
- 1 3 5
- Semitones
- 0 4 7
- Chord symbols
- C#maj, C#M
- Also called
- C# Major Triad
How to read this arpeggio
The chord tones are shown as pitch classes first. In the fretboard tool, square markers represent C# root notes, while circular markers represent the remaining tones in the arpeggio.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the C# root notes and connect the remaining major chord tones across standard tuning.
This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called C# Major Triad.
Chord construction and defining tones
C# major combines 3 (E#) and 5 (G#). The major third establishes the major quality, and the perfect fifth completes the stable triad.
Harmonic use
Use this arpeggio to outline C#maj and other major chords directly, especially when a line needs to land clearly on the chord rather than move through the full scale.
Practice this arpeggio on guitar
- Play the C# Major arpeggio from one C# root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
- Alternate between the root and 3 (E#) and 5 (G#), listening for how the third defines the chord more strongly than the fifth.
- Play short ascending and descending phrases over C#maj, changing direction on a different chord tone each time.
Fretboard diagram
Open this arpeggio in the fretboard tool
Start with C# Major loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboard