By Ian Fraser

Learning chords is the most exciting time in learning to play the guitar. Unfortunately it can also be the most frustrating. In contrast to playing individual notes on a single string you’re suddenly having to use more then one finger at a time on several strings and frets.

This lesson is going to introduce you to three easy to learn beginner guitar chords. Two of them only require you to use one finger to make the chord while the third one will challenge your fretting hand. Take your time learning these and try not to get frustrated, especially when you’re strumming and trying to switch between them. Practice makes perfect when it comes to chords and the guitar.

Just before I introduce you to the first chord I want to explain the tablature notation I’ve used below. The X’s represent strings which you do not strum, the number represent the frets you press on and the 0’s represent strings that are to be played open.

Three String C Chord

E — 0 —
B — 1 —
G — 0 —
D — X —
A — X —
E — X —

To play this beginner C chord place your first finger on the first fret of the B string and strum the bottom three strings from G to E.

Three String G Chord

E — 3 —
B — 0 —
G — 0 —
D — X —
A — X —
E — X —

The G chord, like the C chord above, only uses one finger. Place your third finger on the 3rd fret of the E string and play the bottom three strings in a smooth strum.

Three String D7 Chord

E — 1 —
B — 2 —
G — 1 —
D — X —
A — X —
E — X —

Unlike the previous two chords this one uses three fingers at once so it will be more challenging. To make the D7 chord use your second finger on the 1st fret of the E string, your third finger on the 2nd fret of the B string and your first finger on the 1st fret of the D string.

When you practice these chords first aim to make them sound crisp and clean on your own. Focus on using just your finger tips to press the frets down. Once you have them mastered on their own start strumming on and switching between them. Watch the video lesson below to see more about what I mean.

Want to learn more guitar chords and improve your skills? Why not try learning at home using a learn to play guitar dvd? Home study courses on dvd are becoming the private guitar lessons of the 21st centruy. With online integration where you can ask questions and get feedback it’s a great method of learning on your own terms.

Tags: c, chords, d7, free, g, guitar, learning, lessons, three string