Guitar Chords in G Major
Diatonic Triads and Major Scale
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 challenging chord (the fingering and getting in and out of it) for the key of G.
The Major Keys: C G D A E B F# Gb Db Ab Eb Bb F
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).
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 in G. This
scale is one note different than
C Major.
Play the
Chord Scale and the progression:
I-vi-ii-V7-I.
Notice the D7. It was also presented in a chord compare lesson.
Write your own progression. Which chords do you like the most? Find interesting combinations. If you need an idea about harmony, check out the mention of progressive harmony in this lesson.
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).
Now in a graphic:
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 and 4.
Next, try putting the 3 and 4 on first, then the 2 and 1. Try all combinations.
Once you wiggle your way into this chord, do lifters and 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.
