C-shape Major Arpeggio

The major triad arpeggio outlines the chord tones of a major triad chord. When we practice major scales, we know we are playing chord tones on downbeats when we can hear this arpeggio thumping out like a heartbeat underneath the scale.

Arpeggio vs chord shape

This is the major triad arpeggio around the C-shape major chord.

Notice that there's a third (3) and a fifth (5) on the sixth string, and another fifth above the grip on the first string, that are not included in this chord shape.

Practicing the arpeggio

Practice playing the C-shape major triad arpeggio along with the C-shape major chord. Pay attention to the extra chord tones on the sixth string and the extra 5 above the grip on the first string.