C-5 guitar chord (C Major Diminished 5th)

Symbols: -5

Steps: 1-3-b5

Notes: C-E-Gb

The C -5 chord, also known as a major diminished 5th, features a flat fifth interval in the major triad. Its notes C, E and Gb provide a unique dissonance, making it suitable for jazz or experimental compositions. Below, you'll find two variations how to play the "C -5" chord, each featuring finger placements and an audio sample.

Variation 1
C-5 guitar chord - variation 1
  • Barre the 5th fret with your pinky, extending over the 2nd to the 3rd strings
  • With your middle finger, press down on the D (4th) string at the 4th fret
  • Press the A (5th) string on the 3rd fret with your index finger
  • Strum from the 5th string to the 2nd strings

Variation 2
C-5 guitar chord - variation 2
  • Press the G (3rd) string on the 9th fret with your ring finger
  • With your pinky, press down on the D (4th) string at the 10th fret
  • Place your middle finger on the A (5th) string at the 9th fret and press down
  • Use your index finger to press the low E (6th) string down on the 8th fret
  • Now, strum all the strings up to the 3rd string

Other C Chords

[ Table ]

Other Major Diminished 5th Chords