The diminished triad on bass, in all 12 keys
Two minor 3rds stacked. Unstable; it wants to resolve up a half step. Also called: 1 · ♭3 · ♭5.
Formula: 1 ♭3 ♭5. Interval steps: m3 m3 TT. Use it over: Diminished chords and the vii chord of a major key.
Notes in every key
Printable chart of all 12 keys: PDF · print page · every pattern in one PDF
Where the root sits on the neck
| Key | E string | A string | B string (5-string) |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | 8 | 3 | 1 |
| G | 3 | 10 | 8 |
| D | 10 | 5 | 3 |
| A | 5 | 0 | 10 |
| E | 0 | 7 | 5 |
| B | 7 | 2 | 0 |
| F♯ | 2 | 9 | 7 |
| C♯ | 9 | 4 | 2 |
| G♯ | 4 | 11 | 9 |
| D♯ | 11 | 6 | 4 |
| A♯ | 6 | 1 | 11 |
| F | 1 | 8 | 6 |
Practice tip
Resolve it: play the arpeggio, then the root one fret higher.