Starting to learn the guitar can be an exciting and challenging experience — but also one that is full of uncertainty. It might seem like a mountain to climb, with all the chords you need to remember in order to make a few simple songs sound good.
When you first start learning how to play the guitar, it’s tempting to rush into your favorite songs and riffs, but it’s important to start with the basics: learning beginner guitar chords. Knowing which are the most important first chords to learn on guitar can make a huge difference in your progress.
In this article, we’ll help you master easy guitar chords for beginners. But first, let’s look at how to learn guitar chords.
What Are the 4 Basic Guitar Chords for Beginners?
Guitar players starting out can learn four basic chords:
- Em
- C
- G
- D
Depending on which songs you want to learn, you may find that learning other guitar beginner chords makes more sense – it’s all a personal decision. However, these four basic beginner guitar chords are found in all kinds of songs and form a good foundation for future learning.
The best way to master these beginner chords? Guitar lessons! Sign up for guitar lessons today and you’ll not only learn all the guitar chords beginner players need to know, but you’ll learn all kinds of other helpful tips and techniques, too, along with beginner chords guitar, like what you see in the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tKEkV7bB1E
What Are Chords?
How to play guitar for beginners? It starts with chords!
Chords are a combination of two or more notes. Some guitar notes for beginner guitar chords are only made up of two, but lots have four or more notes. Learning guitar chords is important because they are the foundation of the instrument, and by learning just a handful, will give you the tools to play countless songs.
Of course, before you learn guitar chords, it’s important to tune your instrument. Here’s how:
Try Using a Beginner Guitard Chords Chart
The first chords to learn on guitar are Em, C, G, and D.
Let’s get started in “first position” or “open chords.” These chords are played close to the nut and utilize a number of open strings.
Em is the first chord you should learn on the guitar. Here’s how to play this commonly used chord:
The next chord you should learn is C, or C major. For this chord, you only need to strum the top five, highest-sounding strings.
Once you’ve mastered the C chord, you’re ready to add in the G chord. For the G chord, there are two fingerings shown below.
With the addition of the D chord, shown below, you can play thousands of songs! The biggest problem encountered with this chord is getting the first string to sound. Make sure that your third finger is not touching the first string. Here is the fingering:
As you continue to learn more guitar chords to play there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- Play the notes of the chord individually, making sure that all the notes are sounding loud and clear.
- Practice switching between these guitar chords for beginners and keeping a steady beat. Try not to stop – the goal is to switch between chords, getting the best sound possible.
Now you’re ready to learn some easy guitar chord progressions.
SEE ALSO: How to Play the F Chord on Guitar
4 Basic Guitar Chords to Learn First in Progressions
To continue try playing some of the easiest guitar chords below:
Basic Guitar Chord Progression #1
Play these two measures four times.
Basic Guitar Chord Progression #2
Play this guitar chord progression four times.
Basic Guitar Chord Progression #3
Play this progression four times for even more practice.
Basic Guitar Chord Progression #4
Play the first four measures shown above two times, then end on G.
There are a lot more beginner guitar chords to learn and also different guitar chord progressions for beginners. However, knowing these is a great start because they will allow you to play thousands of songs.
Want to switch it up and challenge yourself to keep learning guitar chords? Try the following exercise for each chord progression:
- Strum only on beat 1 of each measure. This gives you plenty of time to get to the next chord.
- Next, try strumming only on beats 1 and 3.
- Finally, strum on all 4 beats.
What Are Some Other Easy Guitar Chords for Beginners?
Every guitarist remembers the thrill of playing their first chords! However, as a beginner, it can be challenging to move beyond the familiar territory of C Major, G Major, D Major, and E minor. Don’t worry, as you practice and learn more over time, it will get easier!
Here are some other beginner guitar chords you may want to learn.
1. A Major
A Major is a widely used chord that beginners can play with ease. It involves using the first three frets of the guitar, and it produces a bright and cheerful sound. Place your first finger on the second fret of the D string, your second finger on the second fret of the G string, and your third finger on the second fret of the B string.
2. E Major
E Major is a versatile chord that works well for multiple genres such as folk, rock, and pop. It’s relatively easy to learn as well. Place your first finger on the first fret of the G string, your second finger on the second fret of the A string, and your third finger on the second fret of the D string.
3. A Minor
A Minor is another uncomplicated chord that beginners can add to their playing repertoire. It’s a fundamental chord that works well with various genres such as pop, folk, and rock. Place your first finger on the first fret of the B string and your second finger on the second fret of the D string.
4. D7
D7 is a more challenging chord for beginners, but the sound it produces can be both unique and satisfying. To play, place your first finger on the first fret of the B string, your second finger on the second fret of the G string, and your third finger on the second fret of the high E string. Strum only the top four strings of your guitar to produce a pleasing sound.
5. G7
G7 has a jazzy quality and is ideal for adding some flair to your playing. Place your first finger on the first fret of the E string, your second finger on the second fret of the A string, your third finger on the third fret of the high E string, and your fourth finger on the third fret of the B string. Remember to strive for clean and accurate notes for the best results.
What Guitar Chords Should a Beginner Learn First?
Learning guitar chords can seem overwhelming as a beginner, but with patience and practice, anyone can master them. Start with the chords mentioned above – Em, C, D, and G – as they are essential to many popular songs and are easy enough for beginners to learn.
By now you should be very familiar with some easy chords on guitar for beginners, the most useful first chords to learn on guitar, and some corresponding progressions. To advance even more in your skills, consider working with a guitar teacher. An experienced teacher can help propel you to the next stage of mastering the guitar. Best of luck on your musical journey!
Focus on correct finger placement and posture, and most importantly, have fun! Soon enough, you’ll be playing your favorite songs and showing off your newly acquired skills.
The chords above and the progressions they create will help you play all your favorite music. Even better, knowing these will help you create music of your own.
Matt B. teaches guitar to students of all ages in Pacifica, CA. Matt joined the TakeLessons team in October 2012, with over 40 years of experience teaching music. His specialties include pop, jazz, folk, and rock guitar styles. Learn more about Matt, or search for a teacher near you!
Photo by Amy Willard
Suzy S.