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How to Play a G5 Chord

The "5" in the G5 chord refers to the interval above G. In this case, the fifth above G is D. Although not technically a chord, since it only has two notes, the G5 chord creates ambiguity. The listener will naturally want to make the chord major or minor, but with the third of the chord missing, this is not possible. This creates an ambiguity of the key that leads some professionals to refer to it as a "power chord" since it is not controlled by a major or minor key center.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what instrument you will use to play the G5 chord. It can be played on piano or guitar fairly easily.

    • 2

      Play the G5 chord on the guitar by placing your first finger on the E string just behind the third fret and your second finger on the A string just behind the fifth fret. A three-note G5 chord can be played by adding the third finger to the D string just behind the fifth fret.

    • 3

      Create the G5 chord on the piano by using the first and fifth finger of either hand to play G and D on the keyboard. Again, you can make this a three-note chord by doubling the G an octave above the lowest G. You can voice this chord in any way you like.

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