FretChords

C

C Major

Also known as:C
Notes
CEG
Intervals

Root - Major 3rd - Perfect 5th

Formula

1 - 3 - 5

Family

Major Chords

Chord Voicings

24 different ways to play C

xoo
321
EADGBe
Position 1

Open position

Difficulty

easy

Fret Span

3 frets

Fingering
-32-1-

E A D G B e

Notes Played
CEG

Common Progressions

Popular chord progressions featuring C

Classic Jazz ii-V-I

Dm7 - G7 - Cmaj7
Jazz

Pop Progression (I-V-vi-IV)

C - G - Am - F
Pop

Ballad (I-vi-IV-V)

C - Am - F - G
Ballad

Chord Tips

Practical tips to make C sound clean and effortless.

  • Let the 2 open strings ring for a fuller sound.
  • Keep your thumb relaxed behind the neck for smoother transitions.
  • Mute 1 string with a light touch to keep the chord clean.
  • Aim for the bass note C on the lowest string you play.

Practice Guide

Build clean tone and smooth transitions with these quick exercises.

Daily Checklist

  • Fret close to the metal and apply steady pressure to avoid buzzing.
  • Practice switching between C and Dm7 at a slow tempo.
  • Strum lightly, then increase volume once every note rings clean.
  • Use a metronome to keep timing consistent as you speed up.

Try This Progression

Use this progression to practice C in context:

Dm7 - G7 - Cmaj7

Start at a slow tempo, then increase the BPM once transitions feel smooth.