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Problems With Playing A Barre Chord

Learning how to play barre chords is an important part of progressing as a guitar player.

But many people have problems with learning how to play a barre chord.

It can be difficult at first to keep your first finger pressed against the strings, and to make the strings ring clearly.

You need to apply a little more pressure than an open position chord… but don’t be tempted to use only pressure.

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It’s more about positioning. Make sure your thumb is level behind the first finger as you hold the neck of your guitar. Try to roll your finger back slightly towards the nut of your guitar as well, if it helps.

There’s no magic secret for how to play a barre chord, its just practice and perseverance. It’s easier to play one on an electric guitar though, and with lighter strings.

A good way to learn is to just practice moving your finger in slightly different positions, and play each string one at a time to check it’s ringing properly.

Try to relax your hand to some degree, don’t tense up and try to squeeze a barre chord out with sheer force – it doesn’t work like that. Also, your finger will toughen up after a few days or weeks (depending on how much your practice) and it will be easier.

If you’re finding barre chords a real problem, try playing them higher up the neck at first, as it’s easier to play them there. Practice the E minor shape first… as that one is easier for most people at first.