AP Music Theory Flashcards: Triad and Chord Qualities (M, m, d, A)
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is a chord?
A chord consists of three or more pitches sounding simultaneously. The two basic kinds of chords are triads and seventh chords.
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What is a chord?
A chord consists of three or more pitches sounding simultaneously. The two basic kinds of chords are triads and seventh chords.
What chord quality do the symbols '°' or 'd' represent?
The symbols '°' or 'd' represent the diminished chord quality for a triad.
What are the four common qualities of triads in Western music?
The four common qualities of triads are major (M), minor (m), diminished (° or d), and augmented (+ or A).
What chord quality do the symbols '+' or 'A' represent?
The symbols '+' or 'A' represent the augmented chord quality for a triad.
What are the two basic kinds of chords?
The two basic kinds of chords are triads and seventh chords.
How is the quality of a chord identified in notated music?
In notated music, chord quality is identified by analyzing the structure of intervals between the written pitches of the chord.
What determines a chord's quality and unique sound?
The structure of intervals within a given triad or seventh chord accounts for its unique sound and allows it to be classified by quality.
What chord quality does the abbreviation 'M' represent?
The abbreviation 'M' represents the major chord quality for a triad.
What chord quality does the abbreviation 'm' represent?
The abbreviation 'm' represents the minor chord quality for a triad.
How is the quality of a chord described in performed music?
In performed music, chord quality is described by its unique sound, which is a result of the intervals between the pitches sounding simultaneously.