Open Chord

Anatomy & Gear

An open chord is any chord that uses at least one open (unfretted) string. On ukulele, most beginner chords are open chords — C major (0-0-0-3), Am (2-0-0-0), F (2-0-1-0), and G (0-2-3-2) all include open strings.

Open chords are generally easier to play than barre chords because they require fewer fingers and less hand strength. They also tend to have a bright, ringing quality because the open strings vibrate at their full length.

Most songs in ukulele-friendly keys (C, G, F, Am) can be played entirely with open chords. As you advance, you'll mix open chords with barre chords and movable shapes to access more keys and voicings.