C Major Guitar Chord

The most fundamental chord in music theory and the perfect starting point for beginners

Difficulty:
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C Major Chord Diagram

Standard Position

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Notes: C - E - G

6th (E) string: Don't play

5th (A) string: 3th fret

4th (D) string: 2th fret

3rd (G) string: Open

2nd (B) string: 1th fret

1st (E) string: Open

How to Play C Major

Place your fingers according to the diagram above. Each number represents which fret to press, and 'x' means don't play that string.

Pro Tip: Press firmly just behind the frets, not on top of them, for the clearest sound.

C Major Variations

Cadd9 (C add 9th)

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Adds the 9th (D note) for a modern, open sound

Csus2 (C suspended 2nd)

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Replaces the major third with the second for an airy feel

Csus4 (C suspended 4th)

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Creates tension that resolves beautifully back to C major

C/E (C over E)

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First inversion with E in the bass for smoother progressions

Popular Songs Using C Major

Famous Examples:

  • Let It Be
  • Hey Jude
  • Wonderwall

More Hits:

  • Good Riddance
  • Boulevard of Broken Dreams

Common Chord Progressions with C Major

C-G-Am-F

The most popular progression in modern music - used in thousands of songs

C-Am-F-G

Classic doo-wop progression that creates a natural cycle

C-F-G-C

Simple I-IV-V-I progression, the foundation of Western harmony

Practice Tips for C Major

1. Perfect Your First Chord

C major is often the first chord beginners learn. Take time to get each string ringing clearly before moving on.

2. Finger Placement

Keep your thumb behind the neck and curve your fingers so they don't touch other strings.

3. Smooth Transitions

Practice changing between C and G, then C and Am. These are the most common chord changes.

4. Strumming Patterns

Start with simple down strums, then try: Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up for a classic pattern.

Music Theory Behind C Major

Notes in C Major: C - E - G

Scale: C - D - E - F - G - A - B - C

Key Signature: No sharps or flats

Relative Minor: A minor

C major is the most fundamental key in music theory. It uses only white keys on the piano, making it the easiest key to understand. The C major chord is built from the 1st, 3rd, and 5th notes of the C major scale.

Master C Major Today!

C Major is perfect for beginners. Practice daily and you'll have it mastered in no time!