What is G Major?
The G Major guitar chord is formed by the notes G – B – D and is played using the fingering 320003. It’s a major chord commonly used in G-D-Em-C.
G Major Chord Diagram
Standard Position
6th (E) string: 3th fret
5th (A) string: 2th fret
4th (D) string: Open
3rd (G) string: Open
2nd (B) string: Open
1st (E) string: 3th fret
How to Play G Major
- Place fingertips close to the fret wire using the diagram 320003.
- Arch fingers so they don’t touch adjacent strings; keep thumb behind the neck.
- Pick each string to check for buzz or mute; adjust pressure and curl.
- Strum slow down-strums; add down–down–up–up–down–up when clean.
Pro Tip: Practice chord changes with a metronome at 70–90 BPM for one-minute rounds.
G Major Variations
Easier Beginner Version
320001
Use your ring finger instead of pinky for the B string. Leave B string open for easier fingering.
Advanced Version
3x0003
Mute the A string for a cleaner sound. Creates a more focused G major sound.
G Major 7th
320002
Add your middle finger to the 2nd fret of the high E string for a jazzy sound.
Popular Songs Using G Major
Famous Examples:
- • Perfect
- • Thinking Out Loud
- • Good Riddance
More Hits:
- • Wonderwall
- • Ho Hey
Common Chord Progressions with G Major
G-D-Em-C
Classic I-IV-V-I progression in G major, perfect for folk and country songs
G-C-D-G
The famous vi-IV-I-V progression used in countless hit songs
G-Am-C-D
Creates a strong emotional movement while staying in G major
Practice Tips for G Major
1. Start with Finger Independence
Place fingers one at a time: middle finger (3rd fret, low E), index finger (2nd fret, A), ring finger (3rd fret, high E), then pinky (3rd fret, B).
2. Master the Pinky Stretch
The pinky stretch to the 3rd fret is challenging. Practice holding just this finger position for 30+ seconds to build strength.
3. Keep Fingers Curved
Arch your fingers so they don't touch other strings. Only fingertips should contact the fretboard.
4. Practice Common Transitions
Focus on G to C major (very common), G to D major (classic progression), and G to Em (easy transition).
Chord Family: C Major
G Major functions as V in the key of C Major.
Music Theory Behind G Major
Notes in G Major: G - B - D
Scale: G - A - B - C - D - E - F# - G
Key Signature: 1 sharp (F#)
Relative Minor: E minor
G major is often called the most important chord in music, found in 60% of all popular songs. Its rich, full sound using all six strings and natural fingering patterns make it essential for country, folk, rock, and pop music.
Master G Major Today!
G Major is perfect for beginners. Practice daily and you'll have it mastered in no time!