Arpeggio is when the notes of a given chord are played one after the other. For example, notes that form the chord of C major are: C, E, G. When we play these 3 notes separately one after the other, we form the arpeggio of C, and when we play these 3 notes at the same time, we form the chord of C.
Every chord, however complex, has an arpeggio, as we can always play note by note. This technique can be used to embellish some harmony or even serve as a part of a solo.
Guitar Arpeggio
It is worth noting that guitarists also use another definition for arpeggio, associated with a technique. This technique consists of playing one note per string, with up and down movements on the instrument’s fretboard, also covering some variations (jumping arpeggio, micro-arpeggio, etc.).
So let’s not confuse things here. Whenever we talk about arpeggios, we are talking about notes associated with a chord. Otherwise, we will make it clear.
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