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

Symbols: -5

Steps: 1-3-b5

Notes: E-G#-Bb

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

Variation 1
E-5 guitar chord - variation 1
  • Position your middle finger on the G (3rd) string at the 1st fret and press down
  • Press down on the D (4th) string at the 2nd fret using your ring finger
  • With your index finger, press down on the A (5th) string at the 1st fret
  • Now, strum all the strings up to the 3rd string

Variation 2
E-5 guitar chord - variation 2
  • Place a barre using your pinky on the 9th fret from the 2nd to the 3rd strings
  • Place your middle finger on the D (4th) string at the 8th fret and press down
  • Use your index finger to press the A (5th) string down on the 7th fret
  • Strum from the 5th string to the 2nd strings

Variation 3
E-5 guitar chord - variation 3
  • Use your ring finger to press the G (3rd) string down on the 13th fret
  • Place your pinky on the D (4th) string at the 14th fret and press down
  • Press down on the A (5th) string at the 13th fret using your middle finger
  • Position your index finger on the low E (6th) string at the 12th fret and press down
  • Now, strum all the strings up to the 3rd string

Other E Chords

[ Table ]

Other Major Diminished 5th Chords