C Chord on Piano (C Major Chord)
The C chord is one of the first chords everyone learns on piano. This is a major chord and also known as C major chord.
Here you'll find a C chord diagram, learn the fingering, notes, inversions and some basic theory for the C major chord. You can also find out what C/E and C/G means.
The C Chord
If you see a C chord, it means to play the notes C, E and G.
You can play the C, E and G in any order, in any hand. Generally, C needs to be the lowest note you play - like in your left hand.
C/E
If you see C/E, the E is referring to the bass note.
On the piano, this would usually mean to play E in the left hand as the lowest note. C and G would come above.
C/G
If you see C/G, the G is referring to the bass note.
On the piano, this would usually mean to play G in the left hand as the lowest note. C and E would come above.
Where The C Chord Comes From
The C chord or C major chord comes from the C major scale.
A major chord is the 1st, 3rd and 5th notes of the major scale which is why this chord has the notes C, E and G.
Which Fingers Do You Use?
For any major chord in the root position (with C at the bottom in this case), you can use your thumb, middle finger and pinkie. In piano, these are finger numbers 1, 3 and 5.
C Chord Inversions
You can play the C chord on the piano in different positions. There are 2 other standard positions and we call these inversions.
Basically, it means taking a note from the bottom of the chord and playing it on the top.
Root position: C E G
First inversion: E G C (Fingers 1 2 5)
Second inversion: G C E
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Free Download:
Ultimate Chord Cheat Sheet
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