How to play E (E Major) on Ukulele
Diagram, notes, and audio for the E chord on ukulele. Free in your browser.
About E on ukulele
E major on the standard ukulele is one of the most awkward beginner chords. The classic shape uses three fingers: index on the 1st fret of the G string, middle on the 4th fret of the C, ring on the 4th fret of the E, with the open A. The notes are E, G#, and B. The two fingers stretching to the 4th fret while another sits on the 1st can feel impossible at first.
Many uke teachers introduce a simplified barre version: barre the 4th fret of the top three strings with the index finger and add a finger on the 7th fret of the A string. While higher up the neck, the shape is mechanically easier than the standard 1st-position E. Players who do a lot of campfire ukulele work choose between the two depending on key and song flow.
E is the I chord in E major (four sharps), and on ukulele it is most commonly encountered as the V chord in A-major songs. Hawaiian standards and Polynesian-flavoured pop frequently sit in A or E, so this chord is not optional for serious ukulele players. Most teachers recommend learning E7 first (much easier — open G, 1st fret C, 1st fret E, 2nd fret A) and substituting it for E in beginner contexts where the seventh works.
Frequently asked questions
- Why is E major so hard on the ukulele?
- The standard shape requires a 1-fret-and-4-fret stretch on adjacent strings, which is mechanically awkward on a small instrument.
- Can I play E7 instead of E major?
- In most beginner songs, yes. E7 is two-finger and adds the 7th (D), which is a common substitute in pop, folk, and Hawaiian music.
- What's a barred E major?
- Barre the 4th fret of the G, C, and E strings with your index, then add a finger on the 7th fret of the A. It avoids the awkward 1-and-4-fret stretch.
Switch instruments
See E on a different instrument — same chord, new diagram.