How Many Chords Do You Need to Master?

Struggling to determine the number of chords you need to know to become a professional musician? The answer may surprise you. Not as many as you might think, but more than you might initially assume.

Why the Number of Chords Matters

The misconception that you need a vast arsenal of chords to succeed in music is a common one. However, a harmonious relationship with music transcends the mere quantity of chords. According to many professional musicians and experts, the reason behind knowing a specific number of chords is not about being measured by the chords you know but rather by the quality and value of the musical products and services you produce.

What Determines Revenue?

Professionals in the music industry are rewarded based on the value they provide, whether it's through their music or their business acumen. It is the fusion of these two skill sets that ultimately determines their success and earning potential. Learning a wide array of chords can certainly enhance a musician's capabilities, but it is not the sole determinant of their earning potential. Knowing what music to create and how to monetize it skillfully are equally crucial.

Basic Chords and Beyond

Most professional musicians start with the basic three chords: I, IV, and V. These form the backbone of many songs, but as a musician grows and evolves, it's important to build upon this foundation. Adding more chords can significantly enrich the musical landscape, making your compositions more dynamic and versatile. Experimenting with additional chords can help you craft a unique sound that resonates with your audience.

Idiom and Style

The number of chords you need to know is also contingent on your musical idiom and personal style. For instance, a jazz musician might benefit from a more extensive repertoire of chords compared to a folk or country musician. The latter focuses more on the text or story, while jazz emphasizes the musicality of the performance. Similarly, the mood of the music can influence the choice of chords. For example, a joyful, upbeat tune might require a different chord sequence compared to a somber, reflective one.

Embracing Your Unique Style

Even if a musician doesn’t know certain chords, it doesn't diminish their value or style. An acclaimed songwriter like Randy Newman often sticks to a simple chord progression, and adding complex chords would change his unique sound. Each musician brings their own flavor to the table, whether it's through a diverse range of chords or a minimalist approach. Authenticity and personal style are what truly define a musician, not the quantity of chords they know.

A Flexible Approach to Chords

Chords can be defined in various ways. A chord may consist of the first, third, and fifth notes of a scale, as well as additional notes like flat fifths, enharmonic ninths, and raised fifths. While these can appear to be different chords, they are essentially variations that add depth and flavor to the music. It's like making mac and cheese; different chefs might use butter, salt, pepper, or other ingredients to create a unique dish, but they are all still mac and cheese.

The Diverse Musicianship Analogy

Just as photographers might choose between color and black and white, musicians have their own unique approach to chords. Some may favor complex chord progressions, while others stick to a simpler, more cohesive style. There is no right or wrong way, only a range of options that cater to different tastes and preferences. What matters most is the quality of the music and the satisfaction it brings to your audience.

Conclusion

The number of chords you need to know is not fixed; it's whatever you find necessary to make the music you love and to connect with your audience. Embrace your creative freedom and experiment with different chord progressions. Remember, the mastery of a few well-played chords can be more effective than a large but unrefined repertoire.

So, how many chords must you know? The ones that are needed no more.