Am Ukulele Chord: How to Play It and Common Variations

Photo of author
Written By Gary Daws

Chief Music Officer

The Am ukulele chord is a popular chord that is used in many songs across different genres. It is a minor chord that consists of the notes A, C, and E. The chord can be played in different positions on the ukulele, and it is a versatile chord that can be used to create different moods in music.

The Am ukulele chord is a great chord for beginners to learn as it is relatively easy to play. With just a few finger placements, anyone can learn to play the chord and use it to play some of their favorite songs. Additionally, the chord can be used in combination with other chords to create more complex chord progressions.

Learning how to play the Am ukulele chord is an essential skill for any ukulele player. It is a chord that is used in many popular songs, and it is a great chord to have in your repertoire. With a little practice, anyone can learn to play the Am ukulele chord and use it to create beautiful music.

What is an AM Ukulele Chord?

An AM ukulele chord is a minor triad chord that consists of the notes A, C, and E. It is also known as the A minor chord. The AM chord is commonly used in various music genres, including pop, rock, country, and folk.

The AM ukulele chord is played by placing your index finger on the second fret of the fourth string (A string), your middle finger on the second fret of the third string (E string), and your ring finger on the first fret of the second string (C string). You should not play the first string (G string).

The AM chord is a basic chord that is easy to learn and play on the ukulele. It is a great chord for beginners who are just starting to learn how to play the ukulele. The AM chord is also used in many popular songs, such as “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole.

The AM chord is a minor triad chord, which means that it has a sad or melancholic sound. It is made up of the root note (A), the minor third (C), and the fifth (E). The minor third is what gives the chord its melancholic sound.

In conclusion, the AM ukulele chord is a basic minor triad chord that is easy to learn and play on the ukulele. It is commonly used in various music genres and is a great chord for beginners.

How to Play an AM Ukulele Chord

Finger Placement

To play the AM chord on your ukulele, place your middle finger on the second fret of the G string. Make sure your finger is perpendicular to the fretboard to avoid accidentally muting the C string below it. Let the other strings ring open.

AM Chord Variations

There are several variations of the AM chord that you can try out. One variation involves using your ring finger instead of your middle finger to fret the C string on the third fret. Another variation is to add your index finger to the first fret of the E string to create a fuller sound.

Tips for Practicing the AM Chord

For beginners, it can be challenging to get the AM chord to sound clear and smooth. Here are some tips to help you practice:

  • Practice slowly and deliberately, making sure each note sounds clear.
  • Use a metronome to help you keep a steady rhythm.
  • Try switching between the AM chord and other chords to build muscle memory and finger strength.
  • Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what works best for you.

Songs That Use the AM Chord

The AM chord is a common chord used in many songs. Some popular songs that use the AM chord include “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, “Let Her Go” by Passenger, and “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz.

AM Chord Charts and Diagrams

It can be helpful to have a visual reference when learning the AM chord. Here are some chord charts and diagrams that can help:

Standard Tuning
A
E
C
G
0
X
X
X
Alternate Tuning
A
D
F#
B
0
X
X
X

Remember to adjust your finger placement and strumming pattern based on the tuning of your ukulele.

That’s it for how to play the AM chord on your ukulele. Keep practicing and experimenting with different variations to find the sound that works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic ukulele chords?

The basic ukulele chords are C, G, Am, F, and Em. These chords are the foundation for many popular songs and are essential for beginners to learn.

How do you play a C chord on ukulele?

To play a C chord on ukulele, place your ring finger on the third fret of the A string, your middle finger on the second fret of the D string, and your index finger on the first fret of the B string.

What is the easiest ukulele chord to play?

The easiest ukulele chord to play is the C chord. It only requires one finger to play and is a great starting point for beginners.

How many chords do you need to learn for ukulele?

You only need to learn a handful of chords to play many popular songs on ukulele. The basic chords include C, G, Am, F, and Em. As you progress, you can learn more complex chords to expand your repertoire.

What is the difference between major and minor chords on ukulele?

Major chords have a happy, uplifting sound, while minor chords have a sadder, more melancholic sound. For example, the C major chord is happy and bright, while the Am minor chord is more somber and emotional.

What is the finger placement for a D chord on ukulele?

To play a D chord on ukulele, place your index finger on the second fret of the G string, your middle finger on the second fret of the C string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the E string.