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Old November 14th, 2007
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Playing guitar for what seems like forever.
 
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Cactus View Post
Steve,

Where can I/we get a veiw of the "partial barre chords." This sounds likejust the ticket for me as well, due to swollen knuckle joints, and wrist stuff. Perhaps this would make playing less complicated in this respect.

Thanks

Cactus
Yeah, good question. I've been wanting to post something about these, and I don't think there is anything here on that yet (somebody jump in).

Basically, partial barre chords are playing only 3 or 4 strings at a time. For example for a partial E form barre chord, you might play the top three strings only.

For example, if an F chord is:

133211

Then you might play a

xxx211 instead.

The same formation as the Dm7 chord without playing the open D string. Or not. Up to you. It's not so much about rules is it is about making the sounds you want.

You can take that partial barre form (barre the high E and B strings with your index finger in the first fret while playing the G string in the second fret with your middle finger) and move it up the neck.

xxx433

and you're playing a G chord.

See the connection?

How about taking the A form. Play an A chord on the top three strings, xxx220, using your pinky and ring fingers in the second fret on the G and B strings. Now take that formation up the neck to

xxx553

Use your index finger for the high E strings and your pinky and ring fingers for the 5th fret strings. You're now playing a C chord.

See the connection? Partial barres and 'partial' chords are just selected strings from the larger barre formations.

Steve


Steve Cass
Solid Walnut Music/ASCAP

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