Hey Friend,
The first chord in the key of G major is... that's right, G major.
We saw it first in the key of C major where it is the fifth chord in the harmonic progression. It takes on a new role here in G major as the root chord for the key.
If we line out the chord progression for the key, here's what you've got:
I IIm IIIm IV V VIm VII° G Am Bm C D Em F#°
The notes for the G major chord are G, B and D, which are the 1 3 5 notes from the G major scale in the key of G major. Here's the key of G major again to illustrate its scale:
G A B C D E F#
The G major chord shows up in three major and three minor keys. Here they are:
Key I IIm IIIm IV V VIm VII° G G Am Bm C D Em F#° C C Dm Em F G Am B° D D Em F#m G A Bm C#°
And the minor keys:
Key Im II° III IVm Vm VI VII Am Am B° C Dm Em F G Bm Bm C#° D Em F#m G A
The open G major chord is one of the foundational chords we use in the CAGED system. What I mean is the G major chord shape can be used to play all major chords simply by moving the shape up the guitar neck to the appropriate position. It is a first inversion chord, which gives us a note order of 1 3 5 (G B D) when we strum the chord downward. When we finger the chord properly, you'll play any major chord on the sixth, fifth and fourth strings (thickest to thinnest).
For example, if you want to use the G major shape to play a C major chord, simply slide your fingers from the open G major chord up to the eighth fret keeping the same shape. Your ring finger is on the sixth string, eighth fret, middle is on the fifth string, seventh fret and your index finger is on the fourth string, fifth fret.
Yeah, it's a bit awkward (which is why we don't usually play a C chord like this), but it works. And that's just one option you have available to play G major. There are eleven possibles I've put in this set of exercises. G major is a stretch chord, particularly in the open position, but stretching is good for you. Just do it!
That should keep you busy today. If you've seen them before, it's good review. If you never seen them, consider yourself introduced! You'll become good friends with old G major!
Don't hesitate to email questions.
Peace~
Dave
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