Guitar arpeggio
C Minor Guitar Arpeggio
C Minor is a three-note arpeggio built from C, Eb, and G. It is also commonly called C Minor Triad. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Chord tones
- C, Eb, G
- Formula
- 1 b3 5
- Semitones
- 0 3 7
- Chord symbols
- Cm, Cmin
- Also called
- C Minor Triad
How to read this arpeggio
The chord tones are shown as pitch classes first. In the fretboard tool, square markers represent C root notes, while circular markers represent the remaining tones in the arpeggio.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the C root notes and connect the remaining minor chord tones across standard tuning.
This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called C Minor Triad.
Chord construction and defining tones
C minor combines b3 (Eb) and 5 (G). The minor third establishes the minor quality, while the perfect fifth keeps the triad grounded.
Harmonic use
Use this arpeggio to outline Cm and other minor chords without adding seventh- or ninth-chord color.
Practice this arpeggio on guitar
- Play the C Minor arpeggio from one C root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
- Move between the root and b3 (Eb) and 5 (G), giving extra attention to the minor third that identifies the chord quality.
- Improvise compact phrases over Cm and finish each phrase on the root, minor third, or fifth.
Fretboard diagram
Open this arpeggio in the fretboard tool
Start with C Minor loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboard