If the song you want to play calls for a C minor chord, you’ve come to the right place! (You may also see it written as Cm.) I’ll show how to play this mellow and melancholy chord easily.

Playing the C Minor Chord

The C minor chord can be a bit tricky for beginning guitarists because it’s a barre chord. The hard work is worth it, though, as you’ll get a fuller sound with this version of the chord.

It is played by barring the 1st through 5th string with the 1st finger on the third fret. Then place the 2nd finger on the 2nd string 4rd fret. Place the 3rd finger on the 4th string 5th fret, and place the 4th finger on the 3rd string 5th fret. You’ll only strum the thinnest 5 strings.

How do you bar all those strings on the third fret? Start by putting the tip of your first finger on the 5th string then flatten your finger and press down on the remaining strings.

Here is what the C minor chord looks like:

C minor chord