Chord Basics Revisited, Pt. I - Chord Shapes

In the January post students were introduced to two finger chords and in February the discussion led to applying various strumming patterns to them. This month I’ll go back to Chord Basics and discuss how using chord shapes will not only help form chords more quickly and accurately, but also promote finger independence. Moreover, we’ll be expanding our student’s chord vocabulary by introducing three finger chords.

The first three finger chords I like to introduce to are the “classic” A, D and E major forms we all know and love. There are various reasons for this but ultimately they are commonly used chords which students will later use to strum their first song.

When I introduce three finger chords I also discuss chord shapes – the process of forming a chord in the fingers before they are placed on strings. When done correctly each finger is placed on each string simultaneously helping to create a smooth transition from chord to chord. Take a look below at the shape of each chord as it is formed in the fretting hand.

A Chord : hand is in a "C" shape, fingers 1, 2 & 3 are together

D chord : fingers 1 & 3 are stuck out while 2 is pulled back

E chord : 1st finger is pulled back while 2 & 3 are stuck out

When students first begin working with chord shapes have them practice away from the guitar. If need be have them make the chord on the instrument first and take their hand off the strings while retaining the shape of the chord. After they are successful in creating chord shapes without the guitar in hand, then incorporate the instrument back in. In making chord shapes on the guitar all fingers should be placed at the same time. Moreover, when the fingers are to be placed on the strings it should be done as slowly as possible. If done correctly, it will feel as if one is “fighting” with their own muscles to move slowly. This is natural as it is a new movement that the fingers are learning to do.

Next month I'll continue with Chord Basics and tackle the topic of guidefingers!