Chords for G C and D7

A number tells you which finger to use.
O means play that string 'open' - no finger touching it.
X means try not to play that string at all.
'R' is the root note of the chord - the note with the same name as the chord.
Click here for a TablEdit file for these chords.

Chords are sets of notes on different strings played together to give a pleasant sound. It's important that your guitar is kept in tune so that chords don't sound 'discordant'.

You will learn that there are 'families' of chords and most chords can be played in at least 3 different ways. Each way is known as a chord shape or chord inversion and the picture shows some of the main shapes which you must learn - it will probably take weeks to learn your chords and your finger tips will hurt, and may even bleed a bit.
They toughen up after time - the first 3 years are the hardest!
(That's a joke - the first 8 years are the hardest!)

When you form a chord shape, play each string on its own as well as strumming - it should sound clearly. At first you will find some strings deadened because you catch them with the inside of a nearby finger. Make sure each finger is placed vertically JUST BEHIND the frets - where the black dots are in the graphics. And touch the string with the tip of each finger, not the side.

Chords for D G and A7

A number tells you which finger to use.
O means play that string 'open' - no finger touching it.
X means try not to play that string at all.
'R' is the root note of the chord - the note with the same name as the chord.
Click here for a TablEdit file for these chords.

Chords for A D and E7

A number tells you which finger to use.
O means play that string 'open' - no finger touching it.
X means try not to play that string at all.
'R' is the root note of the chord - the note with the same name as the chord.
Click here for a TablEdit file for these chords.