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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
G · Em · C · D
Perfect Chords – Guitar
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
G · Em · C · D
Perfect Chords – Ukulele
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
G · Em · C · D
Perfect Chords – Piano
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
G · Em · C · D
Perfect Chords – Banjo
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
G · Em · C · D
Perfect Chords – Mandolin
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
G · Em · C · D
Perfect Chords – Harmonica
Ed Sheeran’s romantic ballad is one of the most popular wedding songs of the 21st century. The fingerpicked arpeggios and gentle dynamics create pure musical beauty.
Strumming Pattern (6/8 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Try fingerpicking the verse: thumb plays bass note, fingers play the top three strings in a rolling pattern. Switch to strumming for the chorus.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the four chords
You need G, Em, C, and D. The progression is gentle and flowing.
2
Feel the 6/8 time
This song has a waltz-like sway in 6/8 time. Count “1-2-3-4-5-6” and strum with a lilting, romantic feel.
3
Start with fingerpicking
The verse sounds best fingerpicked. Use your thumb on bass strings and fingers rolling across the top strings.
4
Build to the chorus
The chorus opens up with fuller strumming. This dynamic shift from fingerpicking to strumming creates the emotional peak.
5
Add the vocals
The melody is beautiful and sits comfortably in most vocal ranges. Sing softly in the verse and let it bloom in the chorus.
Chords & Structure
Full Song — Guitar Version
Verse 1
G – Em
C – D
G – Em
C – D
Chorus
G – Em
C – D
G – Em
C – D
Practice tip: Learn the fingerpicking pattern on just the G chord first. Get your right hand comfortable with the pattern, then add chord changes. Rushing this step is the most common mistake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Perfect"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: G, Em, C and D.
Is "Perfect" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of G, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Perfect" in?
It is in the key of G.
Who wrote "Perfect"?
It was written by Ed Sheeran.