Welcome to this new lesson from the Beginner Guitar Lessons course. Let’s learn other two basic chords, the D major and E major chord. Basic chords are among the most important tools beginners can use for songs and simple chord change exercises. We are going to learn how to play them with strumming and fingerstyle technique. Watch the video below to get started.

The D Major Chord

This chord is very simple and one of the very first major chords beginners learn.

The three notes that make this chord are: D – F# – A. The root note of the chord is the note D which will be played with the thumb on the 4th string open.

Check the diagram below to learn the chord shape:

You are not supposed to play the low E string so once you become better at playing this chord, consider switching to a Modern approach with the left hand so that you can mute the E string with the thumb.

The E Major Chord

This chord is probably the most simple to play compared to the A major and D major. With the A major there are three fingers within the same fret. Easy but the 4th string can buzz a lot! The D major is also pretty easy but the triangle shape can make the top E string hard to get.

The E major chord is really friendly and easy to play because of the finger position. Let’s have a look at the diagram:

The E major chord can be played with the Classical approach as we will be strumming or plucking six string.

Quick Recap

• Practice each chord slowly.
• Learn the D major chord with both Classical and Modern approach.
• Learn the E major chord.