Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star guitar chords
The first tune most people ever learn, now on guitar.
At a glance
- Key C
- Time 4/4
- Level Easy
- Chords C, F, G
Why this song is worth learning
A children's song with three easy chords and a simple four-beat rhythm. It is a good way to practise changes between C, F and G.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| C | x 3 2 0 1 0 |
| F | 1 3 3 2 1 1 |
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
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 | C | C | F | C | F | C | G | C |
|---|---|
| Chorus | C | G | C | G | C | F | C | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 4 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
D D D D
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 C, F and G.
- Play four even down-strums on each chord.
- Practise the change from C to F, which comes up often.
- Play at 100 beats per minute and sing along to keep the beat.
Tips that matter
- Keep it simple. Four equal strums are enough.
- Sing the melody. Singing helps you keep the timing.
Questions about Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
What chords are in Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star?
C, F and G, all in the key of C major.
What time signature is Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star 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 Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star free to learn and share?
Yes. French melody from 1761 with words by Jane Taylor, 1806. Public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.