Beginner Guitar Chords.

 

Open guitar chords are normally one of the first topics to be encountered in beginner guitar lessons and it is amazing what can be played knowing only these three chords.

 

There are five open chords; the E chord, the A chord, the C chord, and the G chord. Even though I call them beginner guitar chords they are used by all guitarists regardless of level – stock repertoire.

 

The most common problems for the beginner are firstly playing the chords cleanly and without fret buzz, and secondly changing between the chords. If you can master these you will get great musical mileage as there are thousands of one, two and three chord songs. No additional knowledge is required to accompany singers, play in bands and jam.

 

Advanced guitarists use these chords by studying a pattern they form across the neck. It is a framework to learn inversions, scales, arpeggios, and other musical devices employed to play freely without getting lost.

 

Beginners chord chart with tips

The G Chord

This is one of the first chords the beginner learns on the guitar. There are a few different fingerings, however this is my preferred.

Learn Different variations of the g chord

The C Chord

This chord has a similar shape to the G chord. Notice the shape your 2nd and 3rd fingers make, its the same as the G except on a different set of string. (don't be fooled by the photo, your little finger doesn't fret a string, however notice how it is not sticking up away from the stings, rather it is close and ready for action!).
Fret Buzz Driving You Crazy?

The D Chord

The D chord is a small "crab like" shape that doesn't utilise the lowest two strings. Because it is only a four rather than a six string chord, it doesn't have the same body of sound as a G or E chord.

**Please note I have found a mistake in the diagram - the second and third fingers are the wrong way round - I will fix it asap!
Relax and Avoid RSI

The A Chord

The A chord can be quite tricky at first because all the fingers are bunched up behind the second fret. This fingering is not appropriate all the time but a good starting point.
Learn to Practice Your Brain

The A minor Chord

The A minor chord is a really nice chord on the guitar. Familiarise yourself with the minor sound. Look at the shape carefully as it as a very common shape on the guitar.
Major vs Minor

The E Chord

The E chord is a real favourite of all guitarist We have two open E strings ringing which make it sound rich and full. It's a good starting point for studying the blues .
More E chords
Learn to Barre the E chord

The E minor Chord

The E minor chord is quite and easy one if you have come this far. Just like an E chord but with the first finger removed. A great opportunity to get used to the difference between major and minor chords.
Try this E Minor Chord