The barre technique is a must for every guitarist. It is used very often and allows you to play chords in different keys using the same fingerings. The index finger of the left hand in this case plays the role of an additional nut that moves from one fret to another. The rest of your fingers grip the strings at the correct frets.
Instructions
Step 1
Start mastering small barre. When performing this technique, not all strings are clamped, but several - as a rule, three or four. If your left hand fingers are still not strong enough, put nylon strings at least temporarily, even if you intend to play metal strings in the future. Adjust the neck so that the distance between the neck and the strings is no more than 0.5 cm. It may well be that the nut of the new guitar will have to be sharpened.
Step 2
Place your index finger on the first three strings. The finger must be absolutely level and grip all the strings equally, otherwise the sound will be rattling. Do nothing with the rest of your fingers yet. Do not be discouraged if at the first moment you cannot relax your left hand. Strive for this, but be prepared to practice for a few days.
Step 3
Remember to place your thumb correctly. It is located under the fretboard, directly opposite the fret on which the barre is played. On a seven-string guitar, the thumb can also be on the strings, clamping them from above. At the same time, the neck lies in the palm of your hand. This technique is very often used when performing gypsy musical works. The index finger should be perfectly straight and parallel to the nut. Only in some complex chords is it permissible to lay it at an angle.
Step 4
When all three strings squeezed sound the same for you, add a fourth. This should be done much faster than the previous step. Start using the rest of your fingers. Find the right chord, learn to play it on one of the lower frets. Move your index finger gradually over the bar and use the same fingering. Determine which chords you learned to play.
Step 5
Put on a big barre. Place all the strings with your left index finger. Try playing an arpeggio. If all strings are straight, play the barre without using the rest of your fingers, one at a time on all frets. This trick alone has resulted in a lot of chords in your arsenal, and you no longer need to use a capo.
Step 6
Find the right chord, play the barre, and use your fingers to pinch the other strings at the desired frets. Achieve an even sound, then repeat the same fingering on other frets.
Step 7
Start playing the root chord progressions in different keys. Start with the ones you already know. For example, once you have mastered the basic chord progression in A minor, play it in B minor with a large barre on the first fret. In this way, go through all the keys.