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Chords are one of the first things that you need to learn when you start playing guitar. Anytime you aren’t playing single notes at a time you are most likely going to be playing chords. Chords are most often created by combining 3 or more notes together on the guitar. By learning just a few basic chords you can actually play your first song. Of course you have to get the rhythm part down too but some songs are very simple even in that area. So let’s take a look at a couple of types of guitar chords for beginners.
The first type of chord we will explore while learning how to play guitar chords is the major chord. In music, a major chord is formed by playing a root, major third, and a perfect fifth. The root is the note which the chord is centered around and the other two terms describe the distance from that root note. One thing you will notice about major chords is that they have more of a happy or upbeat sound when played. They also have a very complete or whole sound and are pleasing to the ears.
The second major type of chords that you will need to learn is the minor chord. The only difference between a major and a minor chord musically is that the minor chord has a minor third instead of a major third relative to the root note. Minor chords will always have a more mellow and sad sound to them. It is often said that a minor chord sounds darker than a major chord.
In addition to major and minor chords there are many different variations created by adding and removing notes to this basic structure. However, if you begin learning how to play guitar chords with these two types you will be well on your way to playing many songs. It is important that you take the time to memorize each chord and where to place your fingers on the fretboard for each.
You should also practice changing between these chords quickly as if you are playing a song in order to get ready for the next lesson.
