The E minor (Em) chord is structured using the formula root (R), minor third (b3), and perfect fifth (5). The notes that make up this chord are:

• Root (E): Establishes the tonal center.
• Minor Third (G): Creates the minor quality of the chord.
• Perfect Fifth (B): Adds stability to the chord’s sound.

To play the Em chord in open position on the guitar, the following finger placement is used:

• Middle finger: Presses down on the second fret of the A string (fifth string), playing the note B.
• Ring finger: Presses down on the second fret of the D string (fourth string), playing the note E.

All other strings are played open. This includes the low E string (sixth string) for the root, the G string (third string) for the minor third, and both the B string (second string) and the high E string (first string) for additional root and fifth tones, respectively. This configuration allows the chord to be played across all six strings, enhancing its fullness and resonance. The Em chord’s structure in open position is effective for facilitating easy transitions to other chords, making it a fundamental chord for beginners to learn and utilise in various musical pieces.