In today’s lesson, we are going to talk about one of the most challenging guitar techniques for beginners: The bar chord technique.

The bar chord (also called barre chord) is the left-hand technique that allows you to play multiple strings with just one finger.

So, how can we play multiple strings with the same finger? With the bar chord technique, you can place the index finger straight on the strings. The fingertip will cover the lowest string while the phalanges take care of the other strings.

Most of the time, we bar the frets with the index finger. However, some chords can be played by barring the frets with the ring or little finger.

You should learn and apply the three-bar chord rule below:

• Rule 1. Keep the thumb behind the neck.
• Rule 2. Keep the palm away from the bottom neck.
• Rule 3. Keep the index finger straight.
• Rule 4. Keep the finger close to the fret wire.
• Rule 5. Adjust the finger.

There are a lot of bar chords. In this lesson, we will take a look at different bar chord positions ranging from two to six strings. You can isolate each set of chords and practice them separately.

Take it step-by-step, and enjoy this lesson!