E suspended 4th chord on piano
Esus4 is a suspended 4th chord built on E. It uses the notes E - A - B and sounds unresolved; it usually settles back to the major chord.
- Notes
- E A B
- Formula
- 1 - 4 - 5
- Right hand fingering
- 1 - 3 - 5
- Left hand fingering
- 5 - 3 - 1
- Chord symbol
- Esus4
How to play Esus4 step by step
- Find E. E is the white key just right of each group of two black keys.
- Add A, 5 half steps above E.
- Add B, 7 half steps above E.
- Press all 3 keys together with fingers 1 - 3 - 5 of your right hand. Keep your wrist level and let the weight of your arm do the work.
Esus4 inversions
An inversion uses the same notes in a different order. Inversions let your hand move less between chords, which is how pianists make chord changes sound smooth.
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the E suspended 4th chord?
The E suspended 4th chord (Esus4) contains 3 notes: E, A, B. Its formula is 1 - 4 - 5.
How do you play Esus4 on piano?
Put your right-hand thumb on E and play E, A, B together using fingers 1 - 3 - 5. With the left hand, use fingers 5 - 3 - 1.