G, C, and D7 - Banjo Chords for Beginners

Learn three beginner banjo chords and how to combine with your roll patterns.

We've spoken in depth about the right-hand technique and the practice of your roll patterns. Now, it's time to involve the left hand to play some chords! The wonderful aspect of a banjo is that you can play a song without much knowledge of theory or technique. In this learning pathway, you will learn how to play G, C, and D chords on the banjo, and how to blend them with roll patterns to compose your first song!

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FreeThe C Chord

And How to Switch from G to C

The three chords you'll learn in these lessons are G, C, and D. You'll already familiar with G as it's your banjo tuned open. Let's take a look at the C chord.
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FreeThe D7 Chord

And How to Play it With Rolls

The fingering of the D7 chord is very similar to that of the C chord. Let's take a look at how this chord is constructed. Using the C chord as your reference point, take your left hand ring finger ...
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Switching Chords with the Forward Roll

Using G, C, and D7 Chords

One of the best things you can do when learning new techniques is try them out in different contexts. Here you'll learn how to switch chords while playing the forward roll.
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Switching Chords with the Forward/Backward Roll

Another Way to Practice Your Chords

This chord sequence is slightly different than the previous lesson. Remember to get creative with this process. You know 3 chords and 3 roll patterns, so there are a ton of possibilities!
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BONUS: Boil Them Cabbage Down

Your First Song!

Now that you've practiced your rolls and chords together, you're ready for your first bluegrass banjo song - Boil Them Cabbage Down!
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Where to now?

Learn Pinch and Slurs on the Banjo in the next lesson series!

Now it's time to bring in some more advanced left hand technique.

FreeThe C Chord

FreeThe D7 Chord