What do we call a group of three or more notes played together?

A group of three or more notes played together is referred to as a chord. Chords are fundamental components of harmony in music, providing a sense of depth and fullness to musical compositions. They can be constructed using various combinations of notes, typically based on scales, and are often defined by their root note and the intervals between the notes.

For example, a C major chord consists of the notes C, E, and G played simultaneously, creating a harmonious sound. Chords can vary widely, including major, minor, diminished, and augmented variations, each offering distinctive emotional qualities and character to a piece of music.

Understanding chords is essential for analyzing harmony in music, as they form the backbone of most Western music compositions and are integral to accompanying melodies.