D major piano chord

How to play D on piano

First, find D, the root of this chord. Then add F♯, the major third. Add A to complete the triad.

Play the notes together to hear the harmony, or one at a time to hear how the intervals form the chord. Start at a comfortable octave; the diagram shows one reference voicing, not the only valid place to play it.

What makes D distinctive?

D major is D–F♯–A, with just one black key. It is a strong partner for B minor because they share two notes.

How does D compare with a related chord?

Bm (B–D–F♯) and D major share D and F♯. They are useful for practicing how harmony changes with minimal movement.

A practice exercise for D

Hold D and F♯, play A for D major, then replace A with B for B minor. Listen to the change in the top voice.

One mistake to avoid

Do not lower F♯ to F natural: that produces D minor rather than D major.

Finger numbers depend on your hand size, octave and musical context; there isn't one universally correct fingering for every voicing.