The open C major chord is one of the first shapes many guitarists learn, but getting every note to ring clearly can take a little adjustment. We’ll show you exactly where each finger goes, which strings to play, how to check the sound, and what to change when a note buzzes or disappears.
In standard tuning, the common open C major shape is written x32010, reading from the sixth string to the first. Put your ring finger on the third fret of the fifth string, your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your index finger on the first fret of the second string. Strum from the fifth string down; leave the sixth string out and let the first and third strings ring open.
What notes make up a C major chord?
A C major chord contains three note names: C, E, and G. These are called the root, third, and fifth. The open C shape spreads those notes across five strings, with some notes repeated in different octaves. That’s why you play five strings even though the chord is built from three note names.
The shape is called an open chord because it uses strings you play without fretting them. In this voicing, the third string (G) and first string (high E) stay open. The...
