Em 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 Em 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 Em Banjo Chord Position

Em Chord On Banjo

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

  • The fifth string is played open.
  • Place your middle finger on the forth string behind the second fret.
  • The third string is played open.
  • 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 Em banjo chord inversions below for alternate finger positions to enhance your banjo playing skills.

Notes In An E Minor Chord

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

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

E Minor 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 Em banjo chords. Have some fun with them, maybe you’ll figure out a new way to play an old song.

E Minor Banjo Chord Inversion 1

Em Chord On Banjo Inversion 1
  • The fifth string is played open.
  • Place your middle finger on the forth string behind the fifth fret.
  • Place your index finger on the third string behind the forth fret.
  • Place your ring finger on the second string behind the fifth fret.
  • Place your pinky finger on the first string behind the fifth fret.
  • The E note (root) is played on the second string, fifth fret.
  • The G note (minor) is played on the fifth string open and the forth and first string, fifth fret.
  • The B note (major) is played on the third string, forth fret.

E Minor Banjo Chord Inversion 2

Em Chord On Banjo Inversion 2
  • The fifth string is played open.
  • Place your middle finger on the forth string behind the ninth fret.
  • Place your ring finger on the third string behind the ninth fret.
  • Place your index finger on the second string behind the eighth fret.
  • Place your pinky finger on the first string behind the ninth fret.
  • The E note (root) is played on the third string, ninth fret.
  • The G note (minor) is played on the second string, eighth fret.
  • The B note (major) is played on the first and forth string, ninth fret.