E minor chord (Em)
Em uses the notes E, G, B. It’s one of the first five chords we teach: easy to finger and used in countless songs.
Numbers are fingers: 1 index, 2 middle, 3 ring, 4 little finger. o = play the open string, x = don't play it. Tap a chord to hear it.
How to play Em
- Put your middle finger (2) on the A (5th) string, 2nd fret.
- Put your ring finger (3) on the D (4th) string, 2nd fret.
- Let the open low E, G, B, high e strings ring.
- Strum all six strings.
Then pick each string one at a time. If one sounds dead or buzzy, adjust that finger. We call this the ring test.
Common mistakes
- A finger touching the string below it. Arch your fingers so only the tips touch the strings.
- Pressing in the middle of the fret space. Move each finger close to the fret wire.
- Strumming strings marked ✕ on the diagram.
- Thumb wrapped over the top of the neck, which flattens your fingers.
Practise the change
Switch between the two chords for one minute, strumming once each time you land. Count every clean change: each switch counts, so Em → Am is 1 and back again is 2.
60
Tip: count out loud as you go.
Learn it step by step. Em is taught in the lesson First chords (Stage 1), with a check at the end so you know it rings clean. Start free
Play your first song
Five chords and steady strumming get you there in a few weeks.