Guitar chord · Very easy
E minor chord (Em) — guitar chord chart
Em is a minor chord built on E. Its notes are E, G, B. Lowering the 3rd by a half step gives minor chords their darker, more melancholic colour.
Em chord charts
Numbers = fingers (1 index, 2 middle, 3 ring, 4 little). ○ open string, × don’t play. Low E string on the left.
How to play Em
- Index (1) on the 5th string, fret 2 (B).
- Middle (2) on the 4th string, fret 2 (E).
- Let strings 6, 3, 2, 1 ring open.
- Strum all six strings.
- Pick the strings one at a time: each note should ring clearly — if one buzzes, move that finger closer to the fret.
Once the open shape is comfortable, try the barre version at fret 7: same chord, higher voice, and a shape you can move all over the neck.
Notes in Em
| Degree | Note | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | E | root |
| ♭3 | G | minor 3rd |
| 5 | B | perfect 5th |
Progressions with Em
Drill these changes with the chord-change trainer and read how to change chords faster.
FAQ
- What notes are in the Em chord?
- Em (E minor) has 3 notes: E, G, B.
- Is Em hard to play?
- No — the open-position shape needs no barre, so it’s a good beginner chord.
- What’s the difference between Em and E?
- E is E G♯ B. Lowering the 3rd by a half step gives minor chords their darker, more melancholic colour.