Guitar arpeggio
G Sus4 Guitar Arpeggio
G Sus4 is a three-note arpeggio built from G, C, and D. It is also commonly called G Suspended 4 and G Suspended Fourth. Use it to study chord tones, interval formulas, and guitar fretboard positions.
- Chord tones
- G, C, D
- Formula
- 1 4 5
- Semitones
- 0 5 7
- Chord symbols
- Gsus4
- Also called
- G Suspended 4G Suspended Fourth
How to read this arpeggio
The chord tones are shown as pitch classes first. In the fretboard tool, square markers represent G root notes, while circular markers represent the remaining tones in the arpeggio.
Use the interactive fretboard to locate the G root notes and connect the remaining sus4 chord tones across standard tuning.
This same arpeggio shape is also commonly called G Suspended 4 or G Suspended Fourth.
Chord construction and defining tones
G sus4 combines 4 (C) and 5 (D). The fourth replaces the third and creates a suspended sound with a close move available to the major third.
Harmonic use
Use this arpeggio over Gsus4 or to create a suspension that resolves when the fourth falls to the third.
Practice this arpeggio on guitar
- Play the G Sus4 arpeggio from one G root to the next in at least two fretboard positions, saying each note name and interval degree aloud.
- Play 4 (C) and 5 (D) in small groups and hear the tension between the fourth and fifth.
- Outline Gsus4, then resolve the fourth down by one fret when the underlying chord changes to major.
Fretboard diagram
Open this arpeggio in the fretboard tool
Start with G Sus4 loaded, then adjust tuning, labels, colors, fret count, and orientation.
Open in interactive fretboard