G Major

G is a solid intermediate shape once open chords feel steady. The first shape is the easiest voicing: 3 fretted strings and 1 open string. Put your index finger on the 2nd fret of the C string. Put your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the E string. Put your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string. Leave the G string open. Strum all four strings and check each one rings cleanly. Watch on YouTube

G is G, B, D. That is a major triad (root, major third, perfect fifth). Play them in any order and you still get G. G sits in the keys of C major, D major, G major.

A major chord stacks root, major third, and perfect fifth (1–3–5). In G that is the notes above. Bright and stable: the foundation of most songs. Open, happy, and resolved. Flatten the third and the same family becomes minor.

Songs that use G include Learning to Fly, With a Little Help from My Friends, I Feel Fine, I'm Yours, Let It Be, and more.