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

If you have ever found yourself playing up around the 12th fret and needed to grab a C# chord and couldn't find one, then the first inversion C# major triad on the sixth string may be able to help you out. The chord contains all of the notes of the C# major triad, but it has the third of the chord, E# (F), in the bass of the voicing. This can come in handy when you're playing with a bass player, as it will ensure your voicing will not clash with the note that the bass player is using over this chord.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

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

1. Place your left-hand ring finger on the 13th fret of the sixth string to sound the note E# (F), which is the third of the chord.

2. Position your left-hand index finger on the 11th fret of the fifth string to produce the note G#, which is the fifth of the chord.

3. Flatten your index finger down over the 11th fret of the fourth string. This is the note C#, the root of the chord. Your index finger will still hold down the G# as well as the new C# note.

4. 
    

   Strum or pluck the lowest three strings to sound the first inversion C# chord on the sixth string. Refer to the example as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not strum any of the top three strings, as they are not a part of this chord voicing.
• Do not hook your left-hand thumb over the top of the neck, as this will make it hard to play this chord and put undue stress on your left-hand wrist.

Resources

• Tips for Practicing Chords