E Minor Guitar Chord (Em)
E minor is a three-note chord built from E (the root), G (the minor third), and B (the perfect fifth). It is the wistful, minor-key counterpart to E major. Progressions built on it tend to feel introspective rather than triumphant. Below are 4 ways to play it in standard tuning, easiest shape first.
Em chord shapes ā standard tuning
How to play it
Place your index finger on the A (5th) string at fret 2 and your middle finger on the D (4th) string at fret 2. Let the low E (6th), G (3rd), B (2nd), and high E (1st) strings ring open. Strum all six strings.
Once that shape is comfortable, try the other 3 voicings above ā same notes, different neck positions and textures.
Notes in this chord
| Symbol | Interval | Note |
|---|---|---|
| R | root | E |
| ā3 | minor third | G |
| 5 | perfect fifth | B |
Keep exploring
Other tunings
Open the interactive chord charts to see Em in open G, drop D, DADGAD, and more tunings.
More E chords
Nearby minor chords
Em FAQ
What notes are in Em?
Em contains E, G, and B ā the root (E), the minor third, and the perfect fifth.
Is Em a barre chord?
Not necessarily. The easiest Em shape (0-2-2-0-0-0) needs no barre ā it uses 2 fingers plus open strings. Barre versions exist too, starting at fret 7, and are handy when you want to move the same grip to other keys.
What is the easiest way to play Em on guitar?
Start with the open position shape 0-2-2-0-0-0. Place your index finger on the A (5th) string at fret 2 and your middle finger on the D (4th) string at fret 2. Let the low E (6th), G (3rd), B (2nd), and high E (1st) strings ring open. Strum all six strings.