Other chords

Simple chords consist of three scale notes, the (1), (3) and (5). When other scale notes are added to these three, more complex chords are created. They're sometimes known as extended chords. Adding further alternate notes is a way of extending the chord.

For example, taking the (1)-(3)-(5)-(7) of the scale will produce a "major seventh" chord.

When you see a number next to the name of the chord, as in G^6th, it means that you must add the appropriate scale note (in this case the sixth) to the original (1)-(3)-(5). So the chord 'formula' becomes (1)-(3)-(5)-(6).

Don't let all this put you off. All of this information is not really necessary for you to know at this stage. I include it here in case you're interested in where it all comes from and it may help you form a mental picture of how music works if you think visually, as I do. The study of chords is a lifetime affair. Once you know the recipe, and you have mapped out your fretboard, you will be able to invent new positions and voicings yourself. For the time being though, just remember what the fingering grids look like and enjoy the sounds and moods of them all.

MAKE SURE YOU'RE PERFECTLY IN TUNE!

Some extended chords