3 MIN · UNDERSTAND & PLAY
Understand suspended chords
An idea to hear, see and put under your fingers.
The third steps aside
Csus4 contains C–F–G: F replaces E. Csus2 contains C–D–G. Without a third, these chords are neither major nor minor.
Your turn
Compare sus4 and sus2; find the moving note.
Resolve or keep the suspension
From Csus4 to C major, F moves down to E. This can feel like an arrival. A suspension can also remain a colour in its own right without resolving.
Your turn
Alternate sus4 and major four times, then end on sus4.
Check your understanding
In sus4, which note is replaced?
See the explanation
The fourth replaces the third: 1–4–5.
Turn words into sound.
Find this lesson in the workshops to hear examples, compare chords and answer the quiz.
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