Learning to play the guitar can seem overwhelming at first, but one of the best ways to get started is by mastering a few basic chords. Guitar chords are the building blocks for countless songs, and learning them will give you the confidence to start playing new music. Whether you’re picking up the guitar for the first time or returning to it after a break, these beginner guitar chords can help get you started.
E Minor (Em)
E minor is often the first chord new guitarists learn because it’s simple and versatile. It’s a two-finger chord, and its melancholic sound is featured in many popular songs across genres. To play Em, place your middle finger on the second fret of the A string (5th string) and your ring finger on the second fret of the D string (4th string).
A Minor (Am)
A minor has a slightly sadder tone than E minor and is another essential chord in beginner-friendly songs. Place your index finger on the first fret of the B string (2nd string), your middle finger on the second fret of the D string (4th string), and your ring finger on the second fret of the G string (3rd string).
E Major (E)
E major is one of the first major chords beginners should learn. It has a fuller sound than its minor counterpart, E minor. To play it, place your index finger on the first fret of the G string, your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the D string.
A Major (A)
A major is another chord you’ll see often in guitar music. It’s also easy to transition to from E or D major. Place your index, middle, and ring fingers on the second fret of the D, G, and B strings (4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings).
C Major (C)
C major has a bright and cheerful sound and is a staple in so many songs. Start by placing your index finger on the first fret of the B string, your middle finger on the second fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the A string (5th string).
G Major (G)
G major is another must-know chord due to its widespread use in all types of music. Place your middle finger on the third fret of the low E string (6th string), your index finger on the second fret of the A string, and your ring and pinky fingers on the third fret of the B and high E strings (2nd and 1st strings).
D Major (D)
The D major chord has an uplifting sound. To play it, place your index finger on the second fret of the G string (3rd string), your middle finger on the second fret of the high E string (1st string), and your ring finger on the third fret of the B string (2nd string).
D Minor (Dm)
The D minor chord has a sadder tone and is often used in songs with a more emotional vibe. To play D minor, place your index finger on the first fret of the high E string, your middle finger on the second fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the B string.
B Minor (Bm)
B minor is the first bar chord many guitarists learn. Bar chords require you to press down multiple strings with one finger, which can be challenging at first. To play B minor, place your index finger across all the strings on the second fret, then position your middle finger on the second fret of the B string, and put your ring and pinky fingers on the fourth fret of the D and G strings.
F Major (F)
Like B minor, F major is a bar chord and can take some practice to master. Place your index finger across the first fret of all strings, then position your middle finger on the second fret of the G string, and put your ring and pinky fingers on the third fret of the A and D strings.
Ready to Learn More?
If you want personalized guidance to fast-track your progress with beginner guitar chords, private music lessons are a fantastic option. At Lessons In Your Home, our experienced instructors will bring guitar lessons that match your skill level to help you master these popular guitar chords. Schedule your private guitar lessons today with Lessons In Your Home!
