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How to play the E minor over C# chord on guitar

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The Em/C# chord

The Em/C# chord, pronounced "E minor over C sharp," is a beautifully melancholic chord that adds depth and emotion to any composition. It's created by playing an E minor chord with a C# bass note, resulting in a sound that's both haunting and captivating. This chord is often used in genres like indie, folk, and alternative rock to evoke a sense of introspection and longing.

There are many ways to play a chord. Here's a diagram for the most common E minor over C# chord. We've also included other versions below.

E minor over C# guitar chord diagram

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Finger placement for Em/C# chord

The E minor over C# chord is typically played as a barre chord on the 9th fret of the guitar.

Follow these finger positions to play a E minor over C# chord on your guitar:

  1. Place your index finger on the 9th fret, barring all six strings.
  2. Place your middle finger on the 11th fret of the 4th (D) string.
  3. Place your ring finger on the 12th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  4. Place your pinky finger on the 12th fret of the 2nd (B) string.

To strum this chord, use your pick or thumb to strum down across all six strings in one smooth motion. You can also try alternating between down and up strums for a more dynamic sound.

E minor over C# guitar chord with finger positions

How to play an easy Em/C# chord on guitar

If you're a beginner looking to play a simpler version of the E minor over C# chord, try playing an E minor chord shape starting on the 9th fret. Place your index finger on the 9th fret of the 5th string, middle finger on the 10th fret of the 4th string, and ring finger on the 11th fret of the 3rd string.

How to play a Em/C# bar chord

Playing the E minor over C# chord as a barre chord can make it easier to transition to and from other chords, and can also provide a fuller, more resonant sound.

Here's how to play an E minor over C# barre chord:

  1. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 4th fret, creating a barre.
  2. Place your middle finger on the 5th fret of the 2nd (B) string.
  3. Place your ring finger on the 6th fret of the 4th (D) string.
  4. Place your pinky finger on the 6th fret of the 3rd (G) string.
  5. Strum all six strings from low to high.

Common Em/C# chord progressions

The E minor over C# chord (Em/C#) is often used to add a sense of tension, melancholy, or emotional depth to a chord progression. This chord can be found in various progressions across different genres, creating a distinctive sound that resonates with listeners. Here are some common chord progressions featuring the Em/C#:

  • i - VII - VI - VII (Em - D - C - D) - Used in "Creep" by Radiohead and "Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M.
  • i - VII - VI - III (Em - D - C - G)
  • i - VII - IV - V (Em - D - A - B)
  • i - VI - III - VII (Em - C - G - D) - Used in "Losing My Religion" by R.E.M.
  • i - III - VII - IV (Em - G - D - A)

Drills to master the Em/C# chord

To master the E minor over C# guitar chord, try playing the chord in different rhythms. Start with simple quarter notes, then progress to eighth notes, triplets, and even sixteenth notes. This drill helps build muscle memory and familiarity with the chord shape.

Another effective drill is to practice transitioning between the E minor over C# chord and other chords commonly used in the same key, such as A major and B major. Focus on smooth transitions and maintaining a consistent tempo. With regular practice, you'll find yourself seamlessly incorporating this chord into your playing.

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Songs that feature the Em/C# chord

Here are 7 popular songs you can play with the E minor over C# chord:

  1. Believer by Imagine Dragons (Em, C, G, D)
  2. Heathens by Twenty One Pilots (Em, C#, G#, B)
  3. The Scientist by Coldplay (Em, C, G, D)
  4. Viva la Vida by Coldplay (Em, C#, G#, B)
  5. Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes (Em, C#, B)
  6. Pumped Up Kicks by Foster The People (Em, G, D, A)
  7. Creep by Radiohead (Em, C#, G#)

How a guitar teacher can help

If you feel stuck in your playing, it might help to take personalized guitar lessons with an expert guitarist. Taking lessons with a pro gives you access to the skills, feedback, and motivation to reach your goals.

You can find expert guitar teachers to support you in the journey. Thousands of people have turned to online guitar lessons on Til, instead of traditional in-person lessons, because Til gives you access to the best teachers in the world from the comfort of home. And with flexible scheduling, secure payments, lesson recordings, and a private chat with your teacher–there’s never been a better way to learn guitar.

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