How to play the G Major chord on Banjo in Standard Tuning

The G chord is perhaps the most important chord to know for playing banjo in open G tuning. It's the tonic chord and used in many songs as the starting and ending chord. Along with the C and D chords, having a solid G chord will allow you to play a large number of bluegrass and old-time standards.And it ain't rocket science folks. It doesn't get much easier than this. 

How to Play the G Major Chord on Banjo in Open G Tuning

First, make sure your banjo is tuned to open G:

• G - 5th string
• D - 4th string
• G - 3rd string
• B - 2nd string
• D - 1st string

For the G major chord, you simply strum the open strings - no fingers required! All of the notes you need (G, B, D) are included in the open strings of the banjo when tuned to G.

Here is a G chord diagram should you need it for some reason:

Strum all 5 strings open, and you've got a rich, vibrant G major chord. It doesn't get much easier than that!

Using G Major in Songs

The G chord appears in tunes like Cripple Creek, Will the Circle Be Unbroken, Amazing Grace, and more. Practice moving between G and the other foundational chords like C major and D major (along with D7 and Dsus4). Work on smooth chord changes between G, C, and D.

With just these three chords, you'll be ready to play many folk and bluegrass standards. The G chord is essential for any banjo player getting started in open G tuning. Practice it until you can switch to and from G effortlessly.

Now get out there and start using your new G chord skill! Play through some of your favorite banjo tunes and songs.