Major 7th · beginner

C major 7th(Cmaj7)

Cmaj7 is easier than C major and sounds dreamier. Many teachers use it as a stepping stone toward the full C shape.

Notes

CEGB

Intervals

R357

Finger placement

  1. 1Ring finger (3): 3rd fret of the A string.
  2. 2Middle finger (2): 2nd fret of the D string.
Practice this chord →
Open position
32×CEGBE

Common mistakes

  • Accidentally fretting the B string out of C-major habit.

Coaching tips

  • It's C major minus the index finger — the open B string is the major 7th.

Troubleshooting

Sounds like plain C

Lift the index finger completely — the open B is the color note.

Related guides

Why your C chord sounds muted (and how to fix it)

Diagnose the three finger-position problems that mute strings in the open C major chord, with a string-by-string checklist and a fix-it drill.

Frequently asked questions

What notes are in the C major 7th chord?

C major 7th contains C, E, G, B — the intervals R, 3, 5, 7 from the root C.

Is C major 7th a beginner chord?

C major 7th is rated beginner. Cmaj7 is easier than C major and sounds dreamier. Many teachers use it as a stepping stone toward the full C shape.

C major 7th: sounds like plain c — what should I do?

Lift the index finger completely — the open B is the color note.