CAGED System Chords

We will start off the exploration of the chord-scale relationship with the CAGED System. This system allows you to use five familiar chord shapes to link together and play any given major chord in five different positions. The image above shows the five familiar chord shapes. Memorize these shapes and associate them with their respective letter.

To explain how to apply this concept we will use the C Major chord as an example:

In the open position, you use the “C” shape in the image above to play a C Major chord.
In the third position, you use the “A” shape in the image above to play a C Major chord.
In the fifth position, you use the “G” shape in the image above to play a C Major chord.
In the eighth position, you use the “E” shape in the image above to play a C Major chord.
In the tenth position, you use the “D” shape in the image above to play a C Major chord.

Once you get to the twelfth position the pattern repeats. Use the “C” shape in the image above to play a C Major chord in the twelfth position.

Once you understand this and play through it you will see how these shapes link together. Upon further exploration of the system you will begin to memorize all the triads in the chord shapes and be able to play them in succession.

Please write a comment to share your thoughts about the CAGED System.

Regards,

Jeremy Driscoll