Chord dictionary

A minor Chord

A minor has 3 notes: A · C · E

Position 1
EADGBEx231
Position 2
2frEADGBE444x1
Position 3
5frEADGBE111134
Position 4
7frEADGBEx1342

A minor

Symbol: Am

Notes: A, C, E

Type: Minor

Variations: 4 positions shown

Related chords

See if you like these chords in A, or minor chords in other keys:

Notes and intervals in A minor chord

Good idea to know the intervals:

NoteIntervalFunction
A1PRoot
C3mMinor 3rd
E5PPerfect 5th

The root (A) is the core. Other notes stack on top to create the minor tonality.

How to play A minor

Play each string individually first, each note should ring clearly. Then try strumming.

For barre chords, use your index finger to press down all strings at one fret (works as a movable capo), while your other fingers form the shape. This can be hard, but you'll get there!

Questions about the Am chord

What notes are in A minor chord?

A minor chord contains the notes A, C, E. You play them together to get minor sound. You can also play the same note over different strings to get fuller sounds.

How do you play A minor on guitar?

Find Am on the fretboard by locating the root note (A) and applying the minor shape. The minor chord formula is: Root, Minor 3rd, Perfect 5th.

What does A minor chord sound like?

A minor has a sad, dark, introspective quality. It's commonly used in rock, blues, classical music.