Naming Chords on `Ukulele

Determining the correct name of a chord.

Published: 02 Jan 2005 Updated: 14 Jul 2022Visits: 84Code: UL42-misc-name

Topic: Chords Instruments: Ukulele Subjects: Chords • Theory • Jazz

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Naming Chords on `Ukulele

A Chord can have alternate names based on how it is being used. A chord's function is an important determining factor in naming a chord.

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Determining the Name of a Chord?

One very important step in determine the name of the chord is the figure out the root or letter name of the chord, which can only be determined by 1) the harmonic function or 2) asking the bass player. A bass player has extreme power in determining the name of a chord and its harmonic function. They can use the power for good or evil. A good example of this is the play all the open strings of a C tuned ukulele and and ask most players the name and you will either get Am7 or C6. If the real bass note or perceive bass note is C it might be C6, is the note A it might be Am7. If the harmonic function is a I chord in the key of C major it is C6. If it is the I chord in Am it's Amy if it is the VI chord in C is Amt, if it is the II chord in F major its Amy ... you get the idea. One really needs to know how it is being named.

Unless you know the harmonic function of a given chord, you might not be able to accurately name it.

Naming Chords on `Ukulele…

A Chord can only be named in the context of how it is being used and after determining how it's functioning within that context.

  • A Chord can have alternate names based on how it is being used. A chord’s function is an important determining factor in naming a chord.
  • A Chord can ONLY have one name at a time. It is what it is, not what it can be.
  • A Chord can NOT be named by its fingerboard shape.
  • A Chord can NOT be named by its lowest note.
  • A Chord might NOT have a root.

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