Guitar Chords in C Major
Diatonic Triads in C
This lesson shows you the guitar chords in C Major. Like all Major keys, there are 7 tones in the scale (key). A chord can be built from every tone in the scale, therefore, there are 7 chords.
The basic type of chord is a triad (a three note chord built every other tone). Let's look at the map for C Major: the chords, the scale, and the chord scale. Check out 7th chords in C here.
The Major Keys: C G D A E B F# Gb Db Ab Eb Bb F
Practice fretting (playing) all of the chords in the Diatonic Triads box above. Keep in mind that B diminished (the last one) isn't used a great deal. You really can ignore it if you choose.
Practice the scale. If you need help interpreting the Scale Frame in the middle box above, please check out this lesson.
Play the Chord Scale. Once you are comfortable with playing this chord scale, write your own progression. Keep in mind that you can strum in any rhythm and the strumming pattern given is only one option. Get creative.
A benefit to scale and chord scale playing is that it tunes your ears. As you get more comfortable with these chords, you will be able to tell when they are being used (based on the way they ring).
As you practice these chords, listen, really listen. Do you like the sound you are getting? Is the sound clear? Sense whether your fretting hand finger pads are touching strings under them.
