Guitar Chords in G Major

The guitar chords in G Major are G, Am, Bm, C, D, Em F#o (F# diminished).

As with all Major key centers, there are 7 tones in the scale (key). A chord can be (is)built from every tone in the scale, giving us 7 chords (3 major, 3 minor, and 1 diminished chord).

The basic type of chord is a triad (a three note chord built every other note).

In this lesson, you will be asked to write your own progression. First, let's get the chords under our fingertips. The B minor (Bm) is the most challenging chord (the fingering and getting in and out of it) for the key of G.

Chord Family of G Major (1# = F#)

Diatonic Triads

Play the G Triadic Chord Scale

7ths

7 = Maj7 = Major 7 = the 7th is 11 half steps away from root
m7b5 = minor 7, flat 5 = half diminished 7 []

Play the G Chord Scale Using 7ths

 

G Major Scale

Play the G Major Scale

 

To Do

Practice fretting all of the guitar chords in G (in the Diatonic Triads above). Keep in mind that F# diminished (the last one) isn't used a great deal (D7 will do just fine in its place). It's still good to know, however.

Practice the scale. If you need help interpreting the Scale Frame in the middle box above, please consult this lesson.

Notice that there is one sharp (F#) in G. This scale is one note different than C Major.

Play the Chord Scale & progressions.

Write your own progression. Which chords do you like the most? Find interesting combinations.

B minor

B minor's shape is similar to an A minor chord (A form moved up 2 frets - with a flat 3rd). When you practice fretting this chord, try starting at first with the first finger, then add the 2, then the 3 & 4.

Next, try putting the 3 & 4 on first, then the 2 and 1. Try all combinations.

Once you wiggle your way into this chord, do lifters & landers. Lifters and landers are when you leave 3 fingers down while lifting and landing one. You can also go in sets of 2.

You also can play fragments.

Chord Function

The I chord is the Tonic, and the vi chord is grouped with the Tonic function. The IV chord is the Subdominant, and the ii chord is grouped with Subdominant function. The V chord is the Dominant, and the viio is grouped with the Dominant function. The iii chord can function as a Tonic or a Dominant, depending on the situation (harmonic rhythm and voicing).

Guitar chords in G & all other Major keys