Em
How to play the E Minor Chord on your piano or keyboard
What is Em in piano chords? A guide on how to play Em on the piano – and understanding more about the chord.
From the chord symbol Em we get the following information:
- The Em chord has the note E as root note
- The Em chord is a 3-note chord (a triad)
- The Em chord is a minor chord
Because Em is a 3-note chord it also has 3 inversions:
- Root inversion
- 1st. inversion
- 2nd. inversion
Em chord – Root inversion (basic inversion) looks like this: E – G – B
Em chord – 1st. inversion (root note at the top of the chord): G – B – E
Em chord – 2nd. inversion (root note in the middle of the chord): B – E – G
Em chord – fingering:
Root inversion:
| Finger | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| Note | E | G | B |
1st. inversion:
| Finger | 1 | 2 | 5 |
| Note | G | B | E |
2nd. inversion:
| Finger | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| Note | B | E | G |
Em chord – Closely related scales and harmonic functions:
The Em chord is the 1st. step in the Em minor scale
| Step | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| Chord | Em | F#m(b5) | G | Am | Bm | C | D |
The Em chord is the 4th. step in the B minor scale
| Step | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| Chord | Bm | C#m(b5) | D | Em | F#m | G | A |
The Em chord is the 5th. step in the A minor scale
| Step | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| Chord | Am | Bm(b5) | C | Dm | Em | F | G |
The Em chord is the 6th. step in the G major scale
| Step | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 |
| Chord | G | Am | Bm | C | D | Em | F#m(b5) |
Experiment with different fingerings and hand positions.
When learning how to play a Em chord on piano, it’s important to experiment with different fingerings and hand positions to find what works best for you.
Some people prefer to use their thumb, middle finger, and pinky finger to play the chord, while others may find it easier to use their thumb, index finger, and middle finger. (I recommend the first solution in most cases)
Additionally, try playing the chord with your hand in different positions, such as with your fingers curved or with your hand tilted slightly to the left or right. With practice, you’ll find the fingerings and hand positions that work best for you.
More on becoming a piano playing pro
Are you a music enthusiast who’s always been fascinated by the beauty of piano music? Do you have an ongoing dream of playing your own melodies on the piano but didn’t know where to start? Well, you’re in the right place. Playing the piano is a skill that requires patience, practice, and dedication. But with the right guidance, anyone can learn to play and master the keys.
Here at PianoChordCharts you will find all the basic information you need to get started with playing chords on your piano. From understanding the piano keys and notes to playing the correct fingers for the chords.
On this page we had a closer look at: What is Em in piano chords – and – how to play em chord on piano
Whether you’re a complete novice or have some experience playing the piano, the guides here at PianoChordCharts will help you develop the skills you need to become a proficient piano player.
Basic Finger Positioning and Hand Placement
Before you can start playing the piano, you need to know how to position your fingers and hands on the keys. Correct finger positioning and hand placement are essential to playing with ease and fluidity.
Start by resting your fingers on the keys, with your wrists slightly raised and your elbows at your sides. Your fingers should be curved, with your fingertips resting gently on the keys. Keep your fingers relaxed and avoid tensing up.
When playing a note, use the tip of your finger to press down on the key. Avoid using the flat part of your finger, as this can cause the note to sound muffled or unclear.
Hand placement is also important for playing the piano. Your hands should be level with the keyboard, with your palms facing down.
When you play chords on the piano, you should play the chords with you right hand, around middle C on the piano. This gives a nice rich and fat sound to your chords.
To make your chord progression stay around middle C use chord inversions.
In your left hand you can play the root note of the chord – either as a single note – or as an octave, doubling your root note in the bass area.
Tips for Practicing Effectively
Practicing regularly is essential to becoming a proficient piano player. Here are some tips for practicing effectively:
– Set aside a specific time each day for practice
– Break up your practice sessions into smaller increments, such as 15-20 minutes at a time
– Focus on one aspect of playing at a time, such as finger positioning or reading sheet music
– Practice slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable
– Take breaks as needed and don’t push yourself too hard
Remember to be patient with yourself and enjoy the process of learning to play the piano.
Learn more piano chords
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