Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

To play the C Power Chord chord on guitar, find the notes C, G across the fretboard. The root C typically goes on the 6th or 5th string. Use the interactive fretboard above to see exact finger placement for this extended chord shape.

Guitar Chord

C5 Guitar Chord

Root and perfect fifth only — no third. Versatile in rock and metal with distortion. Learn the C Power Chord chord on guitar with interactive fretboard, audio playback, and multiple voicings.

Notes
C – G
Intervals
0 – 7
Type
extended chord
C G
E
A
D
G
B
e
3
5
7
9
12
2 notes · Standard (E A D G B E)

Playing the C5 Guitar Chord

The C5 chord is a power chord chord built on the root C. It contains 2 notes: C, G. On guitar, this chord can be played in multiple positions across the fretboard, from open shapes to barre chord voicings.

Root and perfect fifth only — no third. Versatile in rock and metal with distortion. For guitarists, mastering the C5 chord unlocks many songs in the key of C.

Recommended C5 Guitar Voicing

The interactive fretboard above shows a practical C5 voicing. The chord notes (C, G) appear as highlighted positions. Tap any highlighted fret to hear that note, or click "Play C5" to hear the full chord.

Interval Structure of C5

Degree Interval Semitones Note in C
Root Root (R) 0 C
3rd Perfect 5th 7 G

Common Progressions with C5 on Guitar

  • I–IV–V: C5 – F5 – G5 (foundation of blues and rock)
  • I–V–vi–IV: C5 – G – Am – F (modern pop staple)
  • I–vi–IV–V: C5 – Am – F – G (50s doo-wop)

Tips for Practicing C5 on Guitar

Start by finding the root note C on the 6th and 5th strings. Build the chord shape from there. Practice transitioning between C5 and nearby chords like F and G. Use slow, deliberate strums and check each string rings clearly.

Other C Guitar Chords

C
Major
Cm
Minor
C7
Dominant 7th
Cmaj7
Major 7th
Cm7
Minor 7th
Cdim
Diminished

Power Chord Chord in All 12 Keys

C5 C#5 D5 D#5 E5 F5 F#5 G5 G#5 A5 A#5 B5
Virtual Guitar
Interactive fretboard
C5 Piano
Piano chord diagram
C Scale
Notes that fit this chord
Songs
Find songs using C5

Knowledge Base & FAQs

C5 Guitar Chord — FAQ

Everything you need to know about our browser-based Web Audio engine, instruments, and music theory workspace.

How do I play the C5 chord on guitar?

To play the C Power Chord chord on guitar, find the notes C, G across the fretboard.

The root C typically goes on the 6th or 5th string. Use the interactive fretboard above to see exact finger placement for this extended chord shape.

What notes make up the C5 guitar chord?

The C Power Chord guitar chord contains 2 notes: C, G.

These are derived from the power chord interval formula applied to the root C.

What is the best guitar voicing for C5?

The most common guitar voicing for C5 uses a root position with C on the 6th or 5th string.

The exact frets depend on your preferred voicing — the interactive fretboard above shows a recommended open or barre position shape.

Is C5 a beginner-friendly guitar chord?

C5 is a extended, making it accessible for beginners.

Focus on clean fretting of each 2 notes and strumming only the target strings.

What is a barre chord version of C5?

A barre chord version of C5 uses your index finger pressed across all strings at a specific fret, with the remaining fingers forming the chord shape.

The root C determines the barre position on the 6th or 5th string.

What are common chord progressions with C5 on guitar?

C5 is widely used in jazz ii–V–I turnarounds, blues progressions, and modal funk vamps.

How does C5 sound different on guitar vs piano?

The C5 chord contains the same notes (C, G) on both instruments.

On guitar, the voicing depends on string selection and fret position, creating a different timbre. Guitar chords often include string-specific articulations like hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Can I play C5 as an open chord on guitar?

Open voicings of C5 require C to be playable within the first 3 frets.

If open shapes aren't available, use a barre chord voicing instead.

What is the difference between the C5 chord on guitar and ukulele?

The C5 chord contains the same notes (C, G) on both instruments.

However, the guitar has 6 strings in EADGBE tuning while the ukulele has 4 strings in GCEA tuning, so the finger shapes are completely different.

How do I practice transitioning to and from C5 on guitar?

Practice moving between C5 and its neighboring chords in the key of C major: F and G.

Use a metronome at a slow tempo (60 BPM) and focus on clean, simultaneous finger placement.