Learn How to Play The C Major Chord

Easy Beginner Guitar Chord -- C Major

Below are two versions of the C Major Chord for you to learn. The first is the most common version of this chord, followed by the C Chord played with fourth finger on the G note of the 1st string. Adding another G to the chord gives it a fuller sound.

Make sure you do not strum the Low E String.  That may be difficult at first.  What I like to do is hang my thumb over the top of the neck of the guitar and mute the low E string.

C Major Chord Notes: C, E and G

Here is a key that will help you read the chart:

Everything on the above chart should be self explanatory, except for the last three in the third column. They may need a bit of explaining. The O, or open symbol, simply means that you do not press down on any notes on that string. The X means you do not strum that particular string. The Barre symbol means you need to barre that particular fret. When you barre a fret you are pressing down on multiple strings at the same time with one finger.

C Major Chord Version 1

C Major Chord Version 2

This version is similar to the version above only you place your fourth finger on the third fret of the 1st string adding another G note to the chord. This gives the chord a fuller sound.

C Major Chord Video

Here is a video that demonstrates how to play the C Major Guitar Chord.

Additional Resources

Follow this link for more ways to play the C Major Guitar Chord

Follow this link for more easy basic beginner guitar chords

Guitar Chords in the Key of C major

Gibsons Learn and Master Guitar Review