How to play A (A Major) on Ukulele
Diagram, notes, and audio for the A chord on ukulele. Free in your browser.
About A on ukulele
A major on the ukulele is the second-easiest open chord after C. Only two fingers: index on the 1st fret of the C string, middle on the 2nd fret of the G string. Open E and open A strings ring through. The notes are A, C#, and E. After C and Am, A major is one of the first chords every ukulele beginner masters.
A is the I chord in A major (three sharps), the IV in E major, and the V in D major. On the ukulele, A almost always pairs with D and E (or E7) to form the I-IV-V trio of countless Hawaiian, folk, and pop tunes. The chord's bright character — three of the four strings are still open or near-open — makes it a natural fit for the uke's chiming sound.
Famous ukulele songs in A major include Somewhere Over the Rainbow's bridge sections (in some arrangements), I'm Yours' close cousins in A, and a huge swath of Hawaiian standards including Tiny Bubbles. Practising the switch A → D on ukulele is a foundational beginner exercise — both chords use only two-finger and three-finger shapes that fit comfortably in first position.
Frequently asked questions
- What three notes are in A major on ukulele?
- A, C#, and E. The C# comes from the fretted 1st fret of the C string.
- Is A major easy on the ukulele?
- Yes — only two fingers, both in first position. Most beginners learn it within their first week.
- What chords commonly pair with A major on ukulele?
- D and E (or E7) — together they form the I-IV-V of A major and cover most beginner-friendly songs in the key.
Switch instruments
See A on a different instrument — same chord, new diagram.