E Chord On Banjo

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Whether you’re a beginner or an expert we’ve got you covered with the most complete list of common finger positions and inversions of the E chord on a banjo.

All of the following chord positions are based on a 4 or 5 string banjo tuned to standard open G tuning. If you are playing a 4 string banjo the finger position is the same for each chord. Just ignore the top (fifth) string.

The Most Common E Major Banjo Chord Position

E Chord On Banjo

The most common way to play the E Major chord on a banjo is:

  • The fifth string is not played.
  • Place your middle finger on the forth string behind the second fret.
  • Place your index finger on the third string behind the first fret.
  • The second string is played open.
  • Place your ring finger on the first string behind the second fret.

Although this is the most common this is not the only way to play this chord. Once you have mastered this position, check out the E Major banjo chord Inversions below for alternate finger positions to enhance your banjo playing skills.

Notes

The E Major banjo chord includes the notes B, G sharp and B.

  • The E note (root) is played on the forth and first string, second fret.
  • The G sharp note (major) is played on the third string, first fret.
  • The B note (major) is played on the second string, open.

E Major Banjo Chord Inversions

As you may know the same notes are available at many different positions on the banjo fretboard. An inversion is simply just another way of positioning your fingers on the banjo neck to play a familiar chord.

Below is a list of alternate finger positioning for this chord. Have some fun with them, maybe you’ll figure out a new way to play an old song.

E Major Banjo Chord Inversion 1

E Chord On Banjo Inversion 1
  • The fifth string is not played.
  • Place your ring finger on the forth string behind the ninth fret.
  • Place your middle finger on the third string behind the eighth fret.
  • Place your index finger on the second string behind the seventh fret.
  • Place your pinky finger on the first string behind the ninth fret.
  • The E note (root) is played on the forth and first string, ninth fret.
  • The D sharp note (major) is played on the third string, eighth fret.
  • The F sharp note (major) is played on the second string, seventh fret.

E Major Banjo Chord Inversion 2

E Chord On Banjo Inversion 2
  • The fifth string is not played.
  • Place your ring finger on the forth string behind the thirteenth fret.
  • Place your index finger on the third string behind the eleventh fret.
  • Place your middle finger on the second string behind the twelfth fret.
  • Place your pinky finger on the first string behind the thirteenth fret.
  • The E note (root) is played on the second string, twelfth fret.
  • The D sharp note (major) is played on the forth and first string, thirteenth fret.
  • The F sharp note (major) is played on the third string, eleventh fret.