B (B major) is built from 3 notes: B, D♯, F♯.
- Broot
- D♯major third
- F♯perfect fifth
Formula: 1, 3, 5
How to play B on guitar
x 2 4 4 4 27 9 9 8 7 7Read the diagrams with the low E string on the left. × means do not play that string, ○ means play it open.
Easier way: there is no open B shape, so it is usually played with one of the movable shapes above. With a capo you can use a shape you already know: capo on fret 2 and play the A shape, or capo on fret 4 and play the G shape.
How to play B on piano
Play B, D♯, F♯ together. With your right hand, use fingers 1, 3 and 5 (thumb on B). Your left hand can play B an octave lower for a fuller sound.
Chords in the key of B major
These seven chords are built from the B major scale (B, C♯, D♯, E, F♯, G♯, A♯), so they all sound at home next to B.
Common progressions in B major
- I - V - vi - IV: B - F♯ - G♯m - E
- I - IV - V - I: B - E - F♯ - B
- ii - V - I: C♯m - F♯ - B
- vi - IV - I - V: G♯m - E - B - F♯
The relative minor of B major is G♯m. Both keys use the same notes. On the Camelot wheel, B major is 1B.
Related chords
Change this chord into another key with the Chord Transposer, or look up any other chord or scale in the Chord and Scale Finder.