Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Ftap to play
Ctap to play
Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Am · G · F · C
Sound of Silence Chords – Guitar
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Ftap to play
Ctap to play
Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Am · G · F · C
Sound of Silence Chords – Ukulele
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Ftap to play
Ctap to play
Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Am · G · F · C
Sound of Silence Chords – Piano
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Ftap to play
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Am · G · F · C
Sound of Silence Chords – Banjo
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Ftap to play
Ctap to play
Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Am · G · F · C
Sound of Silence Chords – Mandolin
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Ftap to play
Ctap to play
Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Am · G · F · C
Sound of Silence Chords – Harmonica
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Ftap to play
Ctap to play
Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Range
Varies by singer
Chords
Am · G · F · C
Sound of Silence Chords – Vocal
One of the most haunting folk-rock songs ever written. The fingerpicked arpeggios create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Folk Fingerpick (4/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑↓↑
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Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
Am – G
Am
F – C (×2)
F – Am
G – Am
Verse 2
Am – G
Am
F – C (×2)
F – Am
G – Am
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 4 chords in the key of A: Am G F C. Get each shape clean on its own first.
2
Practice the changes
Switch slowly between the two hardest chords in a loop until the move feels automatic — no strumming yet.
3
Add the strumming
Bring in a simple down-strum once the changes are smooth, then build up to the song’s rhythm.
4
Play along
Play with the original track to lock in the timing and feel.
Tip: The F barre chord is the tricky one — use Fmaj7 (skip the low E and A strings) while you build finger strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Sound of Silence"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: Am, G, F and C.
Is "Sound of Silence" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of A, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Sound of Silence" in?
It is in the key of A.
Who wrote "Sound of Silence"?
It was written by Paul Simon, and released in 1964.