Explore the world of guitar chords and learn how many chords are there on a guitar. From basic chords to major, minor, seventh, suspended, extended, and altered chords, expand your repertoire and enhance your guitar playing skills.
Basic Guitar Chords
When it comes to playing the guitar, understanding basic chords is essential. These chords form the foundation of countless songs and provide a starting point for beginners. In this section, we will explore three types of basic guitar chords: open chords, barre chords, and power chords.
Open Chords
Open chords are a great place to start for beginners as they involve using some open strings. This makes them easier to play and allows for a fuller sound. Open chords are typically played in the first few frets of the guitar neck.
Here are some common open chords:
- A major chord: This chord is played by placing your index finger on the 1st fret of the 3rd string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 2nd string. Strum all the strings except the 6th string.
- C major chord: To play this chord, position your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string, and your index finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string. Strum from the 5th string down to the 1st string, avoiding the 6th string.
- G major chord: Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string. Strum all the strings, excluding the 6th string.
These open chords are the building blocks for many songs and will help you develop finger strength and dexterity.
Barre Chords
Barre chords, also known as movable chords, are played by using the index finger to press down multiple strings across the guitar neck. This technique allows you to play chords in different positions and keys.
Here are a few common barre chords:
- F major chord: To play an F major chord, use your index finger to bar all the strings on the 1st fret. Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings. Strum from the 6th string down to the 1st string, excluding the 5th string.
- B minor chord: Bar all the strings on the 2nd fret with your index finger. Position your ring finger on the 4th fret of the 4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings. Strum from the 5th string down to the 1st string, avoiding the 6th string.
- E major chord: Bar all the strings on the 7th fret with your index finger. Place your ring finger on the 9th fret of the 4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings. Strum from the 6th string down to the 1st string, excluding the 5th string.
Barre chords can be challenging at first, but with practice, you’ll be able to play them smoothly and incorporate them into your playing.
Power Chords
Power chords are a staple in rock and punk music. They are simple two or three-note chords that create a powerful and energetic sound. Power chords are played using just the root note and the fifth note of the major scale.
Here are a few common power chords:
- A5 power chord: Place your index finger on the 5th fret of the 6th string and your ring finger on the 7th fret of the 5th string. Strum only the 6th and 5th strings.
- D5 power chord: Position your index finger on the 5th fret of the 5th string and your ring finger on the 7th fret of the 4th string. Strum only the 5th and 4th strings.
- G5 power chord: Bar the 3rd fret with your index finger and use your ring finger to press down the 5th fret of the 5th and 4th strings. Strum only the 6th and 5th strings.
Power chords are versatile and can be easily moved up and down the guitar neck, allowing you to play them in different keys.
By mastering these basic guitar chords, you’ll have a solid foundation to build upon. Practice regularly and experiment with different strumming patterns to improve your playing. In the next sections, we will delve into major chords, minor chords, seventh chords, suspended chords, extended chords, and altered chords. Stay tuned for more exciting chord variations to enhance your guitar skills.
Major Chords
Major chords are a fundamental component of guitar playing. They create a bright and happy sound, and are commonly used in various genres of music. There are several major chords that every guitarist should learn, including the A Major, C Major, and G Major chords.
A Major Chord
The A Major chord is one of the most commonly used major chords on the guitar. To play an A Major chord, place your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string (D string), your ring finger on the second fret of the third string (G string), and your index finger on the first fret of the second string (B string). Strum all the strings except for the sixth string (E string). This chord has a bright and uplifting sound, making it a popular choice in many songs.
C Major Chord
The C Major chord is another essential major chord for guitarists. To play a C Major chord, place your ring finger on the third fret of the fifth string (A string), your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string (D string), and your index finger on the first fret of the second string (B string). Strum all the strings except for the sixth string (E string). The C Major chord has a clean and classic sound, and is commonly used in both beginner and advanced guitar songs.
G Major Chord
The G Major chord is a versatile and widely used major chord. To play a G Major chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the fifth string (A string), your middle finger on the third fret of the sixth string (E string), and your ring finger on the third fret of the first string (high E string). Strum all the strings, avoiding the sixth string (E string). The G Major chord has a bright and open sound, and is commonly used in rock, pop, and country music.
Learning these major chords will provide a strong foundation for your guitar playing. Practice transitioning between them smoothly and experiment with different strumming patterns to add variety to your playing. As you become more comfortable with these chords, you can incorporate them into your favorite songs and even start writing your own music. Remember, practice is key, so keep strumming and enjoy the journey of becoming a proficient guitarist!
Minor Chords
Minor chords are an essential component of guitar playing, adding depth and emotion to your music. In this section, we will explore three commonly used minor chords: A Minor, D Minor, and E Minor. Each chord has its own unique sound and can be incorporated into various genres and styles of music.
A Minor Chord
Let’s start with the A Minor chord, which is often one of the first chords beginners learn on the guitar. To play an A Minor chord, place your index finger on the first fret of the B string and your middle finger on the second fret of the D string. Strum from the A string down to the high E string, making sure to avoid strumming the low E string.
A Minor has a melancholic and introspective sound, making it a popular choice for creating emotional melodies. It is commonly used in folk, rock, and pop music. Practice transitioning smoothly between A Minor and other chords to build your chord-changing skills.
Here is a simple chord progression that incorporates A Minor:
A Minor – C Major – G Major – A Minor
D Minor Chord
Moving on to the D Minor chord, we have another versatile and widely used minor chord. To play a D Minor chord, 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. Strum from the D string down to the high E string, avoiding the low E string.
D Minor has a slightly darker and more somber tone compared to A Minor. It is commonly used in rock, blues, and ballads. Experiment with different strumming patterns and variations to add depth to your chord progressions.
Here is a popular chord progression that features D Minor:
D Minor – G Major – C Major – D Minor
E Minor Chord
The E Minor chord is another staple in the world of guitar playing. To form an E Minor chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the A string and strum all the strings from the low E string down to the high E string. Make sure to avoid strumming the low E string with your thumb.
E Minor has a bright and introspective sound, making it a popular choice for creating melodies and solos. It can be found in various genres such as rock, pop, and folk. Practice transitioning smoothly between E Minor and other chords to enhance your playing skills.
Here is a simple chord progression that incorporates E Minor:
E Minor – D Major – C Major – G Major
Remember, mastering these minor chords is just the beginning. As you progress in your guitar journey, you will discover countless ways to incorporate these chords into your playing. Experiment with different strumming patterns, fingerpicking techniques, and chord progressions to create your own unique sound.
To further enhance your understanding of minor chords, here is a table summarizing the chord shapes and finger placements for A Minor, D Minor, and E Minor:
| Chord | Shape | Finger Placement |
|---|---|---|
| A Minor | X02210 | Index: 1st fret B string, Middle: 2nd fret D string |
| D Minor | XX0231 | Index: 1st fret high E string, Middle: 2nd fret G string, Ring: 3rd fret B string |
| E Minor | 022000 | Index: 2nd fret A string |
Remember, practice is key to mastering these chords. Take your time, start slowly, and gradually increase your speed and accuracy. By incorporating these minor chords into your playing repertoire, you will be able to add depth and emotion to your music. Happy strumming!
Seventh Chords
Seventh chords are an essential component of many musical genres, adding depth and complexity to chord progressions. In this section, we will explore three commonly used seventh chords: A7, D7, and G7.
A7 Chord
The A7 chord is a versatile chord that is widely used in blues, rock, and jazz music. It is formed by combining the A major chord with a minor seventh interval. To play the A7 chord, follow these steps:
- Place your index finger on the first fret of the B string.
- Position your middle finger on the second fret of the D string.
- Finally, place your ring finger on the second fret of the G string.
Strum the A7 chord from the A string down, avoiding the low E string. This will produce a rich, bluesy sound that can add a touch of soul to your playing.
D7 Chord
The D7 chord is another fundamental seventh chord that is commonly used in various musical genres. It is formed by combining the D major chord with a minor seventh interval. To play the D7 chord, follow these steps:
- Position your index finger on the first fret of the high E string.
- Place your middle finger on the second fret of the G string.
- Finally, position your ring finger on the third fret of the B string.
Strum the D7 chord from the D string down, avoiding the low E string. This chord has a bright and lively sound, making it a popular choice for chord progressions in folk and country music.
G7 Chord
The G7 chord is a staple in blues, jazz, and rock music, adding a distinctive flavor to chord progressions. It is formed by combining the G major chord with a minor seventh interval. To play the G7 chord, follow these steps:
- Position your index finger on the first fret of the high E string.
- Place your middle finger on the third fret of the low E string.
- Finally, position your ring finger on the third fret of the B string.
Strum the G7 chord from the low E string down, avoiding the A string. This chord has a rich and dominant sound that can create tension and resolve in your music.
By incorporating the A7, D7, and G7 chords into your playing, you can add a new dimension to your chord progressions. These seventh chords provide a foundation for exploring more complex harmonies and can greatly enhance your musical expression.
Remember to practice these chords in different contexts and experiment with strumming patterns to unlock their full potential. As you become more comfortable with these seventh chords, you can start incorporating them into your own compositions and improvisations.
Keep in mind that mastering the technique of playing these chords may take time and practice. Don’t be discouraged if they seem challenging at first – with dedication and perseverance, you will be able to incorporate these seventh chords seamlessly into your guitar playing.
Now that you have learned about the A7, D7, and G7 chords, let’s move on to the next section where we will explore suspended chords.
Suspended Chords
Asus2 Chord
The Asus2 chord is a popular suspended chord that adds a unique and interesting sound to your guitar playing. It is commonly used in various genres, including pop, rock, and folk music. To play the Asus2 chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the D string, your middle finger on the second fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the B string. Leave the high E string open and strum all the strings from the A string down. This creates a rich and vibrant sound that can add depth and emotion to your music.
The Asus2 chord is a versatile chord that can be used in both major and minor keys. It has a bright and uplifting sound that can bring a sense of joy and positivity to your playing. Experiment with different strumming patterns and chord progressions to discover the full potential of the Asus2 chord. It can be used as a substitute for the regular A major chord or as a passing chord to add tension and release in your music.
Dsus2 Chord
The Dsus2 chord is another commonly used suspended chord that can add a touch of mystery and intrigue to your guitar playing. To play the Dsus2 chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the high E string, your middle finger on the third fret of the B string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the G string. Leave the D, A, and low E strings open and strum all the strings from the D string down. This creates a warm and ethereal sound that can create a dreamy atmosphere in your music.
The Dsus2 chord is often used as a substitute for the regular D major chord. It has a softer and more introspective sound that can evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia. Experiment with different finger placements and voicings to find the variation of the Dsus2 chord that resonates with you. Incorporate it into your chord progressions and melodies to add depth and emotion to your playing.
Esus4 Chord
The Esus4 chord is a suspended chord that has a vibrant and energetic sound. It is commonly used in rock, blues, and country music to add a sense of tension and release. To play the Esus4 chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the A string, your middle finger on the second fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the G string. Leave the high E and B strings open and strum all the strings from the low E string down. This creates a powerful and robust sound that can grab the listener’s attention.
The Esus4 chord is often used as a substitute for the regular E major chord. It has a brighter and more aggressive sound that can bring a sense of excitement and energy to your playing. Use it to create dynamic chord progressions and to add intensity to your solos. Experiment with different strumming patterns and techniques to fully explore the versatility of the Esus4 chord.
Extended Chords
Add9 Chord
The Add9 chord is a popular extended chord that adds a ninth note to a basic triad. It is commonly used in various genres of music, including pop, rock, and jazz. To form an Add9 chord, you simply add the ninth note of the major scale to a major or minor triad.
For example, let’s take the C major triad (C, E, G) and add the ninth note of the C major scale, which is D. The result is the Cadd9 chord (C, E, G, D). This chord has a bright and open sound that can add a sense of tension and resolution to your playing.
Playing the Add9 chord on the guitar is relatively easy. Here’s a simple fingering for the Cadd9 chord:
- Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string (A).
- Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string (D).
- Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the 2nd string (B).
- Strum all the strings except the 6th string (E).
Experiment with different voicings and positions on the guitar neck to find the Add9 chords that suit your playing style and musical taste.
Maj7 Chord
The Maj7 chord, short for Major 7th chord, is another commonly used extended chord. It has a rich and sophisticated sound that is often associated with jazz and bossa nova music. The Maj7 chord is built by adding the major seventh note to a major triad.
To understand how to form a Maj7 chord, let’s take the G major triad (G, B, D) as an example. Adding the major seventh note, which is F#, gives us the Gmaj7 chord (G, B, D, F#). This chord has a smooth and jazzy sound that can add a touch of elegance to your playing.
Playing the Maj7 chord on the guitar can be done using various fingerings. Here’s a simple fingering for the Gmaj7 chord:
- Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the 6th string (E).
- Place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the 5th string (A).
- Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string (G).
- Place your pinky finger on the 4th fret of the 2nd string (B).
- Strum all the strings except the 1st string (high E).
Remember to experiment with different voicings and positions on the guitar neck to explore the full potential of Maj7 chords in your playing.
Dominant 9 Chord
The Dominant 9 chord, often written as Dom9, is a versatile extended chord that is commonly used in blues, funk, and jazz music. It adds a major seventh and a ninth note to a dominant seventh chord, creating a rich and colorful sound.
To form a Dominant 9 chord, let’s take the A7 chord (A, C#, E, G) as our starting point. Adding the major seventh note, which is G#, and the ninth note, which is B, gives us the A9 chord (A, C#, E, G#, B). This chord has a bluesy and soulful sound that can add a lot of character to your playing.
Playing the Dominant 9 chord on the guitar can be done using various fingerings. Here’s a simple fingering for the A9 chord:
- Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the 4th string (D).
- Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string (G).
- Place your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 2nd string (B).
- Place your pinky finger on the 2nd fret of the 1st string (high E).
- Strum all the strings except the 5th string (A).
Feel free to explore different voicings and positions on the guitar neck to discover new and interesting sounds with Dominant 9 chords.
Incorporating extended chords like the Add9, Maj7, and Dominant 9 into your playing can add depth, complexity, and expression to your guitar playing. These chords open up a world of possibilities and allow you to create unique and captivating musical arrangements. Experiment with different chord progressions and explore the sounds and emotions they evoke. So grab your guitar, have fun, and let your creativity flow!
Altered Chords
Altered chords are a fascinating and versatile group of chords that can add richness and complexity to your guitar playing. In this section, we will explore three types of altered chords: the augmented chord, the diminished chord, and the suspended 4 chord. Each of these chords has a unique sound and can be used to create tension and interest in your music. So, let’s dive in and discover the world of altered chords!
Augmented Chord
The augmented chord is a triad consisting of a root note, a major third interval, and an augmented fifth interval. It has a distinctively bright and tense sound that can be both captivating and unsettling. The augmented chord is often used to create a sense of anticipation or to add a touch of dissonance to a musical passage.
To construct an augmented chord, you simply raise the fifth of a major chord by a half step. For example, to form an augmented C chord, you would play the notes C, E, and G#. The G# is the augmented fifth, which gives the chord its unique and vibrant character.
The augmented chord is commonly used in jazz and classical music, but it can also be found in various genres and styles. Its ability to create tension and evoke emotion makes it a valuable tool for songwriters and guitarists looking to add complexity to their compositions.
Here are a few examples of songs that feature augmented chords:
- “Blackbird” by The Beatles
- “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix
- “The Man I Love” by George Gershwin
Experimenting with augmented chords can open up a whole new world of sounds and possibilities in your guitar playing. So why not give it a try and see how this altered chord can take your music to the next level?
Diminished Chord
The diminished chord is a triad that consists of a root note, a minor third interval, and a diminished fifth interval. It has a dark and mysterious sound that can add tension and intrigue to your guitar playing. The diminished chord is often used to create a sense of suspense or to transition between different musical passages.
To form a diminished chord, you lower both the third and fifth of a major chord by a half step. For example, to create a diminished C chord, you would play the notes C, Eb, and Gb. The Eb is the minor third, and the Gb is the diminished fifth, giving the chord its distinctively eerie and haunting quality.
The diminished chord is commonly used in jazz, blues, and classical music, but it can also be found in various other genres. Its ability to create a sense of tension and unease makes it a favorite among composers and guitarists looking to add complexity and depth to their music.
Here are a few examples of songs that feature diminished chords:
- “Eleanor Rigby” by The Beatles
- “Black Magic Woman” by Santana
- “Prelude in C# Minor” by Sergei Rachmaninoff
By incorporating diminished chords into your playing, you can add a touch of mystery and intrigue to your compositions. So don’t be afraid to experiment and explore the unique sounds of the diminished chord!
Suspended 4 Chord
The suspended 4 chord, often referred to as the sus4 chord, is a triad that consists of a root note, a perfect fourth interval, and a major or minor third interval. It has a bright and open sound that can add a sense of anticipation and resolution to your guitar playing. The suspended 4 chord is often used to create a sense of movement and tension in a musical passage.
To form a suspended 4 chord, you simply replace the third of a major or minor chord with a perfect fourth. For example, to create a suspended 4 C chord, you would play the notes C, F, and G. The F is the perfect fourth, giving the chord its distinctive and uplifting quality.
The suspended 4 chord is commonly used in pop, rock, and folk music, but it can also be found in various other genres. Its ability to create a sense of movement and resolution makes it a versatile and valuable tool for songwriters and guitarists.
Here are a few examples of songs that feature suspended 4 chords:
- “Hotel California” by Eagles
- “Wonderwall” by Oasis
- “Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding
By incorporating suspended 4 chords into your playing, you can add a sense of anticipation and movement to your compositions. So go ahead and experiment with this versatile and expressive chord!
By incorporating these altered chords into your playing, you can expand your musical palette and create compositions that are rich, engaging, and full of character. So don’t be afraid to experiment and explore the unique sounds of augmented, diminished, and suspended 4 chords. Let your guitar be your guide as you embark on a journey of musical discovery!
