Skip to content
Chord library

Banjo chords chart

Banjo chords with diagrams (five-string banjo, open G tuning): 20 chord types in all 12 keys, in several positions, with fingering and a banjo sound to listen to.

  • 240 chords
  • Fingering for every shape
  • Listen to every chord
  • Left-handed view
Someone playing the banjo
Photo: Matheus Ferrero, Unsplash

First chords to learn on banjo

With these you can play most beginner songs.

Basic chords on banjo

Sus and power chords on banjo

Sixth and add chords on banjo

Diminished and augmented on banjo

Ninths, elevenths, thirteenths on banjo

Frequently asked questions

Which banjo tuning are these chords for?

The most common tuning of the five-string banjo, open G (g D G B D). Strummed open, it is a G major chord on its own.

What about the short 5th string?

The 5th string (g) usually rings open as a drone. The diagrams show the four long strings; when G is not in the chord, it's best to skip the short string when you strum.

Play another instrument too?

Practise with us

Music tools for practice

Tune up, keep time and train your ear – free, no sign-up, right in your browser.

All music tools →

Photos: Isak Photography, 42 North, Rachel Loughman, Vitaly Gariev, Vitaly Gariev, Isaac Martin / Unsplash