G chord (G major) on piano
G (G major) has three notes: G, B and D. Its formula is 1, 3, 5. In major keys, G is the I chord in G major, the IV in D major and the V in C major.
G inversions and fingering
G B D · RH 1-3-5 · LH 5-3-1
B D G · RH 1-2-5 · LH 5-3-1
D G B · RH 1-3-5 · LH 5-2-1
Hear it and see every shape in ScaleSpace →
| Symbol | G |
|---|---|
| Also written | Gmaj, GM |
| Notes | G B D |
| Formula | 1 3 5 |
| Intervals | root, major third, perfect fifth |
| Type | Major chord |
G across the keyboard
Piano, C3 to C5. Notes in this scale, low to high: D3 (5), G3 (1), B3 (3), D4 (5), G4 (1), B4 (3).
Swipe the chart sideways to see all of it.
Questions
What notes are in the G chord?
G (G major) has three notes: G, B and D. Its formula is 1, 3, 5. G is the root, B is the major third and D is the perfect fifth.
How do you play G on piano?
Play G, B and D together. Root position: G B D · RH 1-3-5 · LH 5-3-1.
What key is G in?
In major keys, G is the I chord in G major, the IV in D major and the V in C major. It is diatonic to those keys, so it fits songs in any of them.
What is the difference between G and Gm?
G has a major 3rd, B. Gm lowers it a half step to Bb, which is what makes it sound minor. The root and 5th stay the same.