Power chord
Level 4: 7th chords and beyond
Notes: C, G · Bass note: G · Open position
Also known as: C5, C power chord, C5 chord, C power
Fretting hand for left-handed players (your right hand), C5 power chord. The numbers on the fingertips match the numbers on the chart.Fretting hand for right-handed players (your left hand), C5 power chord. The numbers on the fingertips match the numbers on the chart.
- 1Index
- 2Middle
- 3Ring
- 4Pinky
- TThumb, behind the neck
How to play C5 power chord
- Place your first finger on the first fret of the B string.
- Strum only the G and B strings.
Tips for new players
- Keep your thumb behind the neck and let your fingers arch.
- Press just behind the fret, not on top of it, so every string rings clearly.
- Practice at a slow, steady pace, then try the progression below.
Chord video
Watch C5 power chord, step by step
A short animation that builds the C5 power chord chart and explains every symbol on it.
- X marks a string that is muted or not played.
- Open circle marks a string you play without fretting.
- Numbered dot marks a fretted string. The number is the finger to use.
Learn and practice C5 power chord
Practice progression
C5, D5, E5
Switch between C5, D5 and E5 until the changes feel smooth.
Chords to learn next
C5 up the neck
The same chord in other places on the fretboard. Tap Hear it to listen, or Watch to play the animation for your hand.