Worship · Folk

Amazing Grace Chords

Traditional Beginner Key of G 3 Chords 3 min read Updated Jul 2026

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Key

G

Difficulty

Beginner

Capo

None

Chords

G · C · D

Amazing Grace Chords – Guitar

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Key

G

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

G-C-E-A

Chords

G · C · D

Amazing Grace Chords – Ukulele

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Key

G

Difficulty

Beginner

Left Hand

Root notes

Chords

G · C · D

Amazing Grace Chords – Piano

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Key

G

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

gDGBD (Open G)

Chords

G · C · D

Amazing Grace Chords – Banjo

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Key

G

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

G-D-A-E

Chords

G · C · D

Amazing Grace Chords – Mandolin

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Key

G

Difficulty

Beginner

Harp Key

C Diatonic

Chords

G · C · D

Amazing Grace Chords – Harmonica

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Key

G

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

G-D-A-E

Chords

G · C · D

Amazing Grace Chords – Violin

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Key

G

Difficulty

Beginner

Range

Varies by singer

Chords

G · C · D

Amazing Grace Chords – Vocal

The most recognized hymn in the English language, and often the first worship song guitarists learn. Three chords, a waltz-time strum, and a melody that has moved people for over 250 years.

Chords used: G, C, D · Key: G · Difficulty: Beginner · More 3-chord songs →

Strumming Pattern (3/4 Time)

↓↓↑

123

Tip: The bass note on beat 1 is key. For G, hit the low E string first. For C, hit the A string. For D, hit the D string.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the three chords

You only need G, C, and D. Practice switching between them slowly. The G to C change is hardest — focus on keeping your ring finger anchored.

2

Get the waltz rhythm

This song is in 3/4 time. Count 1-2-3, 1-2-3 and strum: bass note on beat 1, gentle strums on beats 2 and 3. The slow tempo makes every chord change manageable.

3

Learn the progression

The pattern repeats: G, G, C, G, G, D, G. Each chord lasts one full measure (3 beats). Play through the progression without singing first.

4

Add the melody

Once strumming feels natural, start singing along. The melody begins on A- (mazing) which lands on beat 1 of the G chord. Let the words guide your rhythm.

5

Polish and perform

Add dynamics: play verse 1 softly, build through verse 2 and 3, then let verse 4 ring out. Try fingerpicking the intro for a gentle start.

Chords & Structure

Full Song — Guitar Version

Verse 1

G – G – C – G

G – D

G – G – C – G

G – D – G

Verse 2

G – G – C – G

G – D

G – G – C – G

G – D – G

Verse 3

G – G – C – G

G – D

G – G – C – G

G – D – G

Verse 4

G – G – C – G

G – D

G – G – C – G

G – D – G

Practice tip: Play through verse 1 slowly 10 times before moving on. Once your fingers know where to go without thinking, add your voice. Trying to sing and play simultaneously too early is the #1 reason beginners get frustrated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Amazing Grace"?

You need 3 beginner-friendly chords: G, C and D.

Is "Amazing Grace" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 3 chords in the key of G, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Amazing Grace" in?

It is in the key of G.

Who wrote "Amazing Grace"?

It was written by John Newton, and released in 1772.