The B chord can be one of the more challenging beginner guitar chords to master, yet is an integral component of many songs.
As this chord requires extensive use of your pinky finger, make sure that before practicing this chord you strengthen it beforehand.
Easy B Triad
Beginners or those unfamiliar with more intricate B shapes should start off with this basic B chord to get them started. It consists of an B root note paired with two notes stacked atop each other to form a triad shape (two notes stacked over one another). Triads tend to be less tension than their Major or Minor counterparts.
For this chord, place your index finger at the second fret on the D string, with your fourth finger placed on the A string at its third fret. Strum the chord alternating between these two strings until one downstrum per chord can be completed quickly without thinking too much about your fingers. Repeat this pattern until it becomes second nature for you.
If your string set is fatter, you may discover that its first and third strings resonate more openly, creating an eye-catching soundscape that adds variety to triad chords! Give this experiment a try for maximum impact!
Easy B Barre
As is true for all barre chords, don’t force yourself too hard when practicing them – precision should trump power in music and all pursuits alike. Little bits of practice every day will prove more productive than trying to learn all at once in one go. When using second position chords it is essential that your index finger be close enough to the fret to produce a clear note without fret buzz forming; some players struggle with this position due to hitting either their first string (muting it) or pinky finger (a stretch) blocking the G string (causing discordant sounds; this comes with experience.
An alternative to the B barre is a three-note chord, also known as a triad, which is easier to play but will sacrifice lows you may be used to. By mixing up these styles you can add fun strumming patterns that give your songs their own sound – or use the basic barre chord with a capo on the 7th fret and index fingers on strings 1 through 3, for an open sounding chord sound.
Easy B Major
B Major is another ubiquitous guitar chord, and can be played many different ways. One variation begins with a barred shape but without bass notes on A and E strings for easier learning, as well as having an less bassy output which may work better when played alongside other instruments or with more bass-heavy music.
This second variation adds the F# note for an open sound that may take more practice to master, yet will make an excellent addition to your repertoire. Be mindful that as with all barre chords it’s best to place your fingers just behind the fret instead of directly onto it to ensure bright and clear notes. Give both these variations a try and see which works for you best!
Easy B Minor
B minor chords offer endless variations and are incredibly flexible chords to have in your repertoire. From open and barred progressions, B minor can be utilized seamlessly.
This variation is easy and bright-sounding, making use of an open D (4th) string, adding extra resonance to the chord.
Another variation on this shape involves barring only three strings and leaving out the fourth, giving an entirely different sound and is commonly employed in blues music.
Finally, for an additional challenge there is an advanced version that requires using your pinky to cover the fifth fret. While this might present more of a challenge than its simpler cousins, its sound will make up for any lack of practice by sounding fabulous! Just remember to keep your fingers behind the frets to avoid muted strings or dulling chords sound – as with all barred shapes it takes time and practice before becoming comfortable playing them comfortably.