Buzz
The B minor chord (Bm) is highly versatile and frequently used in many songs, though it can be a bit tricky for beginners. The primary challenge lies in its requirement for a barre technique, where one finger must press multiple strings simultaneously. However, the easiest way to learn this chord is by simplifying or even skipping the barre technique. This article will explore three different methods, both with and without barring, to help learners master the B minor chord.
Steps
Playing the B Minor Chord on 3 Strings (for Beginners)
Position your first finger. To play the B minor chord in this simplified way, place your index finger on the second fret of the high E string.
Position your second finger. Next, use your middle finger to press the third fret of the second string, which is the B string.
Position your third finger. Finally, use your ring finger to press the fourth fret of the third string, the G string.
Leave the fourth string (D string) open.
Play the chord. Starting from the open D string, use a pick or your thumb to strum downward across the D, G, B, and high E strings to play the B minor chord. Avoid touching the sixth string (low E) and the fifth string (A).
Playing the B Minor Chord on 5 Strings (Intermediate Level)
Bar the strings with your first finger. The concept of "barring" involves using one finger to press multiple strings simultaneously.
- For this intermediate method, start by placing your first finger on the second fret of the fifth string (A string).
- Use your finger to press all strings from the A string to the high E string against the fretboard.
- At this point, all five strings should be pressed firmly against the second fret.
Carlos Alonzo Rivera, MA
Professional Guitarist
Professional Guitarist
Expert Tip: To bar with your index finger, press it as close to the fret as possible while curving your other fingers into a C shape.
Position your second finger. Similar to the previous method, use your second finger to press the third fret of the second string (B string).
Position your third finger. Unlike the earlier method, now use your third finger to press the fourth fret of the fourth string (D string).
Position your fourth finger. Now, use your pinky finger to press the fourth fret of the third string (G string), right next to your third finger.
Play the chord. For this intermediate level, you will not play the sixth string (low E). Instead, strum with a pick or your thumb from the fifth string down to the first string to play the chord. Avoid touching the sixth string.
Playing the B Minor Chord on 6 Strings (Advanced Level)
Bar the strings with your first finger. This time, extend your first finger across all six strings.
- First, place your index finger on the second fret of the sixth string (low E string).
- Press down firmly to hold all the strings against the fretboard.
- Now, all six strings should be pressed against the second fret.
Position your second finger. As with the previous methods, use your second finger to press the third fret of the second string (B string).
Position your third finger. Similar to the intermediate level, use your third finger to press the fourth fret of the fourth string (D string).
Position your fourth finger. Finally, use your fourth finger to press the fourth fret of the third string (G string), right next to your third finger.
Play the chord. For this complete method, you will strum all six strings, so continue to strum all the strings from top to bottom.
Tips
- Avoid playing the wrong strings in the beginner and intermediate sections, as this will make the chord sound off.
- Only use your first finger when performing the barre technique; otherwise, you may mute the open strings.
- Use a fingering chart to remember finger placements and strings. You can find a useful template here.
- Barre chords (or chords played by barring strings) become easier with consistent practice. Here’s a practice exercise to help you master barre chords.
- When learning chords, knowing finger placement isn’t enough. Transitioning smoothly between chords is true mastery. Try practicing chord transitions with these exercises to improve.
Warnings
- Avoid moving your fingers too quickly or pressing too hard when playing chords to prevent injury.
