BARRE CHORDS | giddy-guitarists

THE BASICS OF GUITAR PLAYING: BARRE CHORDS

Now that you know how to play all the open-position chords, let's move on to barre chords, another series of guitar chords. Barre chords are chords in which you have your 1st finger (index) barres all the guitar strings across the guitar neck. In other words, your index finger is pressing on all 6 of the guitar strings (at the same time) across the guitar neck. Your other three fingers are positioned to other specific areas of the fretboard. This barreing technique of these certain chords create a unique sound, which is usually played in a staccato, or sharply detached, way; rather than letting the strings' sounds ring like in the open-position chords. Barre chords are strummed quick, which gives it its sharp sound.

STEP #1

Place your 1st finger (index) across a fret to play whatever barre chord that you will be playing. Then, press that finger against all 6 of the guitar so that when you strum the chord, you will be able to play and hear all of the individual sounds created that will harmonize to a single chord. To loosen up a bit, it is necessary to just add the pressure on to the barred strings when strumming it once, and then letting the tension go so that your finger is just resting on top of the strings. That way, your fingers won't hurt as you are playing.

STEP #2

Press your thumb against the guitar neck and apply a little bit of pressure. This will give you the cleanest sound if you do it just right. Yes, it's kind of the way you always hold the guitar, but with a tad bit more pressure. And for first-timers, it might be a little awkward and umcomfortable at first, but you'll get used to it! :)

Position all your other fingers to their correct chord shapes on the fretboard to create the barre chord of your choice. Strum once at a time to create a sharp, staccato sound. Happy strumming!

STEP #3

Basic Barre Chords

(played from 1 to 12st fret)