How to play Eb on guitar (and easier ways)
Eb has no open shape, so it is played as a barre or as a small 4-string chord.
The 3D hands holding Eb. Switch to 0.5× and turn the guitar to see each finger.
Where the fingers go
- Index finger (1) lies across the 5 strings from the A (5th) to the high E (1st) at fret 6.
- Middle finger (2) on the D (4th) string, fret 8.
- Ring finger (3) on the G (3rd) string, fret 8.
- Pinky finger (4) on the B (2nd) string, fret 8.
- Do not play low E (6th).
Notes in the chord: Eb – Bb – G
Tips
- The 4-string shape is the easiest way to get Eb into a song.
- If a song uses Eb, Ab and Bb a lot, a capo is usually better than barring all three.
- Strum only the four thin strings.
Easier ways to play Eb
Eb (small, 4 strings)
x x 1 3 4 3
No barre.
With a capo
Capo 1 and play a D shape for the same pitch. Work out other keys with the capo calculator.
Practise Eb inside a real song
Paste the chords of any song that uses Eb, or snap a photo of the sheet. SnapFret plays it with the hands, and you can loop the change you find hardest.
Open the player