Tune to Open G
This guide uses D G D G B D, from the sixth string to the first. From standard, lower the sixth string to D2, the fifth to G2, and the first to D4. Use the Open G tuner, then recheck because changing three strings alters overall tension.
Shape notation: Frets run from string 6 to string 1. A number means fret that string, 0 means open, and x means mute. The open chord has D in the bass; mute the sixth string when you want G as the lowest note.
Movable Open G chord shapes
| Chord | Frets, low to high | Notes or use |
|---|---|---|
| G major | 000000 | The open tuning; use x00000 for G in the bass. |
| A major | 222222 | Full barre at fret 2. |
| B major | 444444 | Full barre at fret 4. |
| C major | 555555 | Full barre at fret 5. |
| D major | 777777 | Full barre at fret 7. |
| A minor | x22212 | Five-string minor voicing with A in the bass. |
| B minor | x44434 | Move the same minor shape to fret 4. |
| C minor | x55545 | Move the minor shape to fret 5. |
Major chords with one barre
Because the open strings form a G major chord, barring all six strings at one fret moves the entire major shape upward. The chord root on the fifth string identifies the chord: fret 2 is A, fret 4 is B, fret 5 is C, and fret 7 is D.
Control the sixth string
The open sixth string is D, the fifth of G. It gives the open chord a broad sound but places D rather than G in the bass. Use your fretting-hand thumb or a picking-hand touch to mute string 6 when a stronger root-position chord is needed.
Practice major and minor movement
- Strum the open G chord and then barre A major at fret 2.
- Move the barre to C major at fret 5 and D major at fret 7.
- Practice A minor at x22212.
- Slide the same minor shape to B minor and C minor.
- Check every string separately so the barre does not mute middle strings.