Which chords should beginners learn first?

On guitar, start with E minor, A minor, C, G and D. On keyboard, C, F and G major let you play hundreds of songs.

Why are there several shapes for one chord?

The same notes can be played in different places on the neck. Open shapes are easiest; barre shapes let you play any key.

Every chord, two instruments

Look up any chord and see guitar chord diagrams and piano keys side by side, then hear how it sounds.

Root

Chord type

Notes: C – E – G

Guitar

Piano

Quick guide

01
Choose the root note and chord type, for example A and Minor.
02
Pick the guitar shape that suits you: open shapes first, then barre shapes higher up the neck.
03
Press Strum or Play on piano to hear the chord and check your fingers against it.

Questions

Quick answers about using this tool. Get in touch.

× means don't play that string; ○ means play it open, without pressing any fret. The orange dot marks the root note.

Keep practising

A precise, free metronome with click, tick-tock or voice counting, tap tempo, time signatures and subdivisions.

Slow down or speed up any song without changing its pitch, and loop tricky passages with A–B repeat.

A chromatic tuner that listens through your microphone, with guitar and ukulele string guides.

First step

Meet Vivek online, try your instrument and leave with a clear plan. Trial classes are relaxed, friendly and come with no obligation.