Guitar chord · Beginner
E major chord (E) — guitar chord chart
E is a major chord built on E. Its notes are E, G♯, B. Major chords sound bright, stable and resolved — the home base of most pop, rock and folk songs.
E chord charts
Numbers = fingers (1 index, 2 middle, 3 ring, 4 little). ○ open string, × don’t play. Low E string on the left.
How to play E
- Middle (2) on the 5th string, fret 2 (B).
- Ring (3) on the 4th string, fret 2 (E).
- Index (1) on the 3rd string, fret 1 (A♭).
- Let strings 6, 2, 1 ring open.
- Strum all six strings.
- Pick the strings one at a time: each note should ring clearly — if one buzzes, move that finger closer to the fret.
Once the open shape is comfortable, try the barre version at fret 7: same chord, higher voice, and a shape you can move all over the neck.
Notes in E
| Degree | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | E | root |
| 3 | G♯ | major 3rd |
| 5 | B | perfect 5th |
Progressions with E
Drill these changes with the chord-change trainer and read how to change chords faster.
FAQ
- What notes are in the E chord?
- E (E major) has 3 notes: E, G♯, B.
- Is E hard to play?
- No — the open-position shape needs no barre, so it’s a good beginner chord.
- What’s the difference between E and Em?
- Em is E G B. Major chords sound bright, stable and resolved — the home base of most pop, rock and folk songs.