Flats always go a half step down and sharps a half step up. The note Ab can also be G# (since it is both a half step UP from G and a half step DOWN from A). I know this might be confusing, but every black key on the piano has TWO names. The Ab major and G# major chords are the same physical chord but with different spellings.

Because Ab is a black note, it has two names. Now, before going further, we need to talk about an important topic. If that sounds confusing, don’t worry! I’ll put it in beginner terms soon and show you lots of keyboard diagrams to help you out. The A-flat chord is basically just a chord in the family of major chords, made up of 3 notes in what’s called a triad. It is formed the same as any other major chord – by building a major third and then a minor third on top of that.

When you see the term “Ab” this is an abbreviation for A Flat. A “b” is a flat sign in music theory. It can sound really beautiful down lower (right below middle C).

However, A flat is in a different register from D flat and E flat. It has a nice mellow sound, much like the other flat chords like D flat and E flat. The A flat chord on the piano is one of my favorite chords.

B flat chord on piano