Will the Circle Be Unbroken guitar chords
A 1907 gospel standard built on the three chords you learn first.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
A gospel hymn built on three easy chords. It is a good song for practising a steady strum while you sing.
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 |
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 | C | G | G | D | D |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | G | C | C | G | 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 until each rings clearly.
- Play D DU D DU on each chord.
- Practise the change from G to D, which comes up often.
- Play at 100 beats per minute and sing along to keep the beat.
Tips that matter
- Sing and play. Singing helps you keep the timing.
- Keep it steady. A calm strum suits the hymn.
Questions about Will the Circle Be Unbroken
What chords are in Will the Circle Be Unbroken?
G, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Will the Circle Be Unbroken 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 Will the Circle Be Unbroken free to learn and share?
Yes. Words by Ada Habershon, music by Charles Gabriel, 1907. Public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.