How To Play Barre Chords (Introduction)
A Warning
Warning: Barre chords (sometimes incorrectly called "bar" chords) often become a stumbling block for learners trying to move to the intermediate level. The key is to build up the strength in your hand by practicing every day. You can use special tools to improve your hand strength between practice sessions if necessary.
About Your Equipment
By the time you begin learning barre chords, you need a quality guitar that is set up well. You should have the action set as low as possible. It is also ideal to use the lightest gauge strings available, especially for acoustic players. (10's for acoustic, 9's or even 8's for electric). It may be best to take your guitar to a professional for adjustment. (Read more about setting up your guitar.)
How to Study Barre Chords
Memorize all six chord forms.
Play two each of the following chords: C, G-, B7 (dominant chord).
Start at the first fret and play the 6th string root major chord shape, followed by the 5th string root major chord shape. Move up to the second fret and repeat. Continue all the way to fret XII and then start moving back down. This exercise is very effective and will help you to quickly master the chord shapes.
5th String Root
6th String Root
Key Tasks
- Memorize the six barre chord forms here.
- Use the barre chord forms to play the chords: G, C, D, E-.
- When there are two choices, try to use the closest chord shape.
