How to Play a First Inversion C Major Triad on the 6th String

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By Matthew Warnock
eHow Contributing Writer

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Play a First Inversion C Major Triad on the 6th String

Learning to play the first inversion C major triad on the sixth string will allow you to sound this chord without having the root of the chord in the bass. This can be used as an effective harmonic tool in any song you are playing, as the C chord is still being sounded, but since the root is not in the bass it "hides" somewhat from the listener.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Place the left-hand index finger on the tenth fret of the fourth string to sound the root of the chord, the note C.
Step 2

Flatten the left-hand index finger down so that it also sounds the tenth fret of the fifth string, the note G, which is the fifth of the chord.
Step 3

Position the left-hand ring finger on the 12th fret of the sixth string. This is the note E, which is the third of the chord.
Step 4

Strum or pluck these three notes to produce the first inversion C major triad on the sixth string.

Tips & Warnings

Skip over the top three strings of the guitar, as they are not a part of this particular chord.
Do not continue to practice this chord if you are having pain in the left hand. Stop and stretch before returning to your guitar.

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