Eb Major
All major scales can be broken down into two tetrachords (a 4-note segment with the pattern 2-2-1). This tuning allows for you to play power chords on all strings while leaving an 8th string open for soloing.
Eb Major tuning can also be an ideal choice if you play metal music, providing access to some distinct tones. Try using techniques such as hammer-ons and pull-offs to craft dynamic lines that sound musical and intentional.
Practice some scales in this key to become familiar with its different note intervals such as whole step and half step intervals, which will enable you to gain a greater grasp and mastery of other tunings related to it such as drop Db tuning.
C Major
C Major is one of the most frequently used chords in all of music, offering its distinctive, upbeat sound to bring songs full circle and bring resolution and closure. Mastering multiple forms of C Major across the fretboard will broaden your horizons musically and increase your options as a musician.
This C Major chord is composed of the E major open string chord shifted five frets higher on its strings. This ensures a solid chord which requires minimal finger movements for playing.
This advanced C major voicing uses an E major open string chord transposed up eight frets; playing it requires more finger movement but can add tension and depth to your chords.
G Major
G Major chord is one of the first chords most guitarists learn, being an all-encompassing chord that uses all six strings.
Beginners who find the standard open G chord too difficult may prefer using three fingers instead, known as a G5 chord because it eliminates its third note – thus creating a G minor chord.
To play this version of a G chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the low E string; your middle finger on the third fret of A string; and your ring finger on third fret of high E string – leaving D and G strings open. Prior to beginning to play this chord it is wise to spend some time stretching your fingers as it may be easy to accidentally muffle one string, diminishing clarity of sound.
D Major
D Major is an essential chord used in many songs and jazz performances alike. This chord can be combined with various other chords such as Gmaj7, Em7 or A13 to create a progression – often played together.
The open D major guitar chord is an invaluable skill to master as one of the most prevalent chord forms in music. Though initially challenging, over time playing cleanly will become much simpler.
For this chord, bar the first three strings with your index finger before positioning your middle finger on the second string at fret six and your ring finger on the fourth string at fret seven on both strings – then strumming all six strings for an authentic sound.
Am Major
Chords are one of the cornerstones of guitar playing. Being familiar with them opens the door to playing an array of songs. And the Am chord is no exception! It can be found across various genres.
As with other major and minor triad chords, Am has a rich, heavy sound that elicits somber or sad emotions, making it ideal for playing contemplative or reflective songs.
Playing this chord comes in many variations, but one of the easiest is with your index finger on the second string and thumb on the first string – this allows you to avoid muzzling any of the thinnest strings! Furthermore, practicing all strings should help develop chords of any octave and progression.