Barre Chord Basics

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Mar 30, 1999

It seems appropriate at this point in time to cover barre chords, also known as bar chords. This is where your index finger works as a capo and "bars" all the strings and then a chord is formed with all or some of the other fingers. A good explanation is found at Dansm's Guide to Barre Chords. The greatest obstacle with barre chords is acquiring the dexterity and strength to hold down (fret) all six strings with your index finger. As you practice this, remember to use your thumb to hold your index finger down. Don't practice too hard or too long. You'll only strain your hand muscles and increase frustration. Use the list of instruction links I have compiled to find some good hand strengthening exercises to help. Be patient!

There are three basic fingerings, and once you learn them you can play as many chords as you have frets. Barre chords are essentially E and A chords played up the fretboard by using your index finger to "become" the nut. As you move up or down the fretboard, the chord is raised or lowered a half step. From these two fingerings you can play a minor or seventh chord by raising a finger. Other minor fingering adjustments give you major sevenths and major ninths. Knowing your bass note is primary in barring because once you've established where it is you can play whatever chord it is you want.

Here is one example: say you are playing a G. Move that same fingering up one fret and you'll have a G#. Move up one more fret and you'll have an A. An excellent lesson in barring by Denny Straussfogel is found at The Guitarists Network. I encourage you to review it.

Below is a link to a great diagram from Guitar Lessons by James J. Brunelle. This visual will give you a good idea of what you've been reading about. Click here for diagram.

Learning barre chords will be one of your most enabling feats in playing guitar. Your confidence will increase as you find yourself able to play more and more songs. One final note: In all of the links I have referred you to, it is emphasized repeatedly that it takes time to strengthen your hand and index finger so you can get a clean sound when barring. From my own experience I can attest to that. So practice regularly, play often, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

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The copyright of the article Barre Chord Basics in Guitar Techniques is owned by Cristina Stine. Permission to republish Barre Chord Basics in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.