Beginner ELECTRIC guitar LESSON 12

THE G MAJOR CHORD

  In this lesson, Marty Schwartz introduces you to perhaps the most popular chord on the guitar—the G chord. By the time the video is over, you’ll know how to smoothly fret and strum the G chord and alternate to its relative minor.

CHORDS FOR THIS LESSON

Playing the G Major Chord

G major is an important building block to put in place if you want to learn your favorite songs. It requires three fingers, fretting from the low E to the high E across the fretboard, so make sure you stretch those fingers before you move on.

How to Play the G Major Chord on the First Fret

To play the G chord in the first position, begin by placing your index finger on the second fret of the A string. Next press your middle finger on the third fret of the low E string. Last, use your ring finger to push down the high E string at the third fret. Play all six strings to hear the full power of the G chord.

What Notes Make Up the G Major Chord

The G major chord is made of three notes—G, B, & D. These notes are the 1^st, 3^rd, and 5^th of the G major scale.

Which Keys Have the G Major Chord in Them 

The G major chord is the tonic or I in the key of G major. It is also the IV in the key of D and the V in the key of C.

Popular Songs that Use the G Major Chord

G major is in too many songs to count. Here are some very popular tunes which were also highlighted in Marty’s video above.

Guns N Roses - Paradise City

Pink Floyd - Wish You Were Here

Oasis - Wonderwall

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