G-shape Major Chord

The G major shape is the open G chord turned into a movable grip. It spans four frets, so unlike the E and A shapes it is not played as one big barre chord.

The core G major shape

This is the complete G major shape, spanning all six strings. Notice that the root is on the sixth string, and again on the third and first strings. Even though the full shape is rarely gripped all at once, this is how we want to see the chord on the fretboard.

To play it, grab it as two separate grips, which are rarely held at the same time:

The bass shape is fingered 43111x, or 4311xx with the first finger lifted slightly to mute the second string. Its lower-pitched strings stack the chord tones R35, a closed root-position triad very similar to the C shape. In fact, it's common to switch between C and G shapes rooted at the same fret.

The treble shape is normally gripped as xx1114. If the reach seems difficult, move the elbow in toward the body; the little finger's reach improves dramatically.

Study and practice

First, learn the chord grips

Use the exercises described in How to Master New Chord Grips to get comfortable with the bass and treble grips, and practice rolling from one to the other on the same chord.

Play primary chords along the neck

Practice improvising with the G shape, changing between the three major primary chords (I, IV and V). The diagram shows the full shape; in practice, switch between the bass and treble grips at each position.

Play the major pentatonic over the G chord

Practice playing the major pentatonic over the G major chord shape, alternating between playing a few notes and strumming the chord. Mix things up to keep it musical and interesting, but focus on landing on the chord tones on downbeats.

See the G-shape major pentatonic lesson for more about playing this scale over the G major chord.