Auld Lang Syne guitar chords
Burns's 1788 words, sung around the world every New Year.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D, Em
Why this song is worth learning
The song most people sing at New Year, and it uses only four chords. Its melody rises and falls over a steady beat, which makes it a gentle introduction to phrasing.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| C | x 3 2 0 1 0 |
| D | x x 0 2 3 2 |
| Em | 0 2 2 0 0 0 |
x means do not play that string, 0 means play it open. Tap any shape on the page to hear it.
Play along
Press play. The track counts you in, clicks the beat and lights up the chord you should be holding. Drop the tempo while you are learning and raise it once you can get through without stopping.
Chord order
| Verse | G | G | C | G | G | D | G | G |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | C | G | Em | C | D | G | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 4 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
D DU D DU
D is a down-strum and U is an up-strum. If the pattern feels like too much at first, play one down-strum per bar until the chord changes are comfortable, then add the rest.
How to learn it
- Learn G, C and D, then add Em for the lines that dip down.
- Strum D DU D DU on each chord, one chord per bar at first.
- Sing the tune in your head while you play so the changes line up with the phrases.
- Play slowly at 80 beats per minute until you can get to the end without stopping.
Tips that matter
- Slow is fine. The song is usually sung at a relaxed pace, which suits beginners.
- Count the bars. Verses are long enough that losing your place is common; count four beats per bar out loud.
Questions about Auld Lang Syne
What chords are in Auld Lang Syne?
G, C, D and Em, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Auld Lang Syne in?
4/4, with four beats per bar. It is rated Easy.
How fast should I practise it?
The play-along is set to 100 beats per minute. Start slower while you learn the changes, then raise the tempo in small steps once you can play through without stopping.
Is Auld Lang Syne free to learn and share?
Yes. Words by Robert Burns, 1788, with a traditional Scottish melody. Public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.