G major chord on piano
G is a major chord built on G. It uses the notes G - B - D and sounds bright, stable and resolved.
- Notes
- G B D
- Formula
- 1 - 3 - 5
- Right hand fingering
- 1 - 3 - 5
- Left hand fingering
- 5 - 3 - 1
- Chord symbol
- G
How to play G step by step
- Find G. G is the white key between the first and second black keys of the group of three.
- Add B, 4 half steps above G.
- Add D, 7 half steps above G.
- Press all 3 keys together with fingers 1 - 3 - 5 of your right hand. Keep your wrist level and let the weight of your arm do the work.
G inversions
An inversion uses the same notes in a different order. Inversions let your hand move less between chords, which is how pianists make chord changes sound smooth.
Which keys use the G chord?
Knowing where a chord lives helps you guess the next chord in a song. G appears naturally in these keys:
Songs that use G
Practice G inside real music. These tutorials use it in the left-hand accompaniment:
- Twinkle Twinkle Little Star (very easy, C major)
- Mary Had a Little Lamb (very easy, C major)
- Ode to Joy (very easy, C major)
- Jingle Bells (easy, C major)
- Amazing Grace (easy, C major)
- Row Row Row Your Boat (very easy, C major)
- Hot Cross Buns (very easy, C major)
- London Bridge Is Falling Down (very easy, C major)
- We Wish You a Merry Christmas (easy, C major)
- Canon in D (easy-intermediate, D major)
- Minuet in G (easy-intermediate, G major)
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the G major chord?
The G major chord (G) contains 3 notes: G, B, D. Its formula is 1 - 3 - 5.
How do you play G on piano?
Put your right-hand thumb on G and play G, B, D together using fingers 1 - 3 - 5. With the left hand, use fingers 5 - 3 - 1.