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The Four Essential Barre Chords

There are four essential barre chords. Two chords with the root on the 6th string and two chords with the root on the 5th string. With one chord major and one chord minor.

(see also 100 easy songs to play on guitar)

Instructions for a Major Barre Chord with the root on the 6th string.


Place your 1st finger down as a barre. Place your 3rd and 4th fingers on the 5th and 4th strings two frets up and your 2nd finger on the 3rd string one fret up. The result is a major barre chord with the root on the 6th string.

Notice that the chord shape is the same as an E major chord in open position.

guitar barre chords major barre

Instructions for a Minor Barre Chord with the root on the 6th string.


Place your 1st finger down as a barre. Place your 3rd and 4th fingers on the 5th and 4th strings two frets up. The result is a minor barre chord with the root on the 6th string.

Notice that the chord shape is the same as an E minor chord in open position.

guitar barre chords minor barre

Instructions for a Major Barre Chord with the root on the 5th string.


Place your 1st finger down as a barre. Place your 2nd, 3rd and 4th fingers on the 4th, 3rd and 2nd strings two frets up. The result is a minor barre chord with the root on the 5th string. Avoid playing the 6th string

Notice that the chord shape is the same as an A major chord in open position.

guitar barre chords major barre 5th string

Instructions for A Minor Barre Chord with the root on the 5th string.


Place your 1st finger down as a barre. Place your 3rd and 4th fingers on the 4th and 3th strings two frets up and your 2nd finger on the 2nd string one fret up. The result is a major barre chord with the root on the 5th string. Avoid playing the 6th string.

Notice that the chord shape is the same as an A minor chord in open position.

guitar barre chords minor barre 5th string

Study these 4 shapes. You should notice they are all similar. For instance, the difference between a major barre chord and a minor barre chord is just one note moved down one fret on the neck. As well the finger for a major barre chord with the root on the 6th string is the same as a minor barre chord with the root on the 5th string, just moved up on set of strings.

If your not sure how to read these diagrams, then refresh your memory with How To Read Chord Diagrams.

(see also 100 easy songs to play on guitar)

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