Mastering Suspended Chords on the Piano: Techniques and Applications
Suspended chords, often denoted sus2 and sus4, play a vital role in adding tension and release in your piano playing. These chords are widely used in various musical styles, from pop to classical, to create a rich and dynamic sound.
Understanding Suspended Chords
Playing a suspended chord on the piano involves replacing the third of a triad with either the second (sus2) or the fourth (sus4). For example, in the key of C, a Csus2 could include C, D, and G. Experimenting with these variations can help enhance your music with a sense of anticipation and release.
Basic Techniques for Forming Suspended Chords
Sus2 and sus4 chords are formed in simple steps off a triad. For a Csus2, start with a C major triad (C, E, G) and replace the third (E) with the second (D), resulting in C, D, G. For a Csus4, keep the same triad but replace the third (E) with the fourth (F), resulting in C, F, G.
A practical demonstration of these chords can be seen on a guitar. The open D chord (D, F#, A) can be transformed into a Dsus2 by removing the third (F#) and letting the high e string ring, which results in D (D, A). To create a Dsus4, move the finger up to the g third fret, resulting in the fourth note (G) replacing the third (F#).
Applications of Suspended Chords
Suspended chords are versatile and can be used to create tension, delay resolution, or add complexity to a chord progression. For instance, in a ii – V – I cadence in D major (e minor, a major, and D major), the D chord (D, F#, A) often feels complete as if it doesn't have to move anywhere. This is because it is in the tonic function of the key of D major, acting as a “home” chord.
To make the chord progression more dynamic, try using suspended chords. For example, in the same ii – V – I sequence, replacing the a major (A, C#, E) with an Asus4 (A, D, E) can add excitement and fulfillment to the progression.
Chord Theory Notes
Chord theory is a powerful tool in music composition and performance. Suspended chords can be further embellished by adding 9ths or 11ths. For a Csus2, you might consider adding a 9th (C, D, G, A), and for a Csus4, adding a 11th (C, F, G, B) without including a 7th (C, F, G, B, D).
Consider learning more about chord theory to enhance your playing and composition skills. If you're interested in a comprehensive piano course that has helped over 450,000 students globally, visit the resource here to start your journey in mastering the piano.