Barre Chords

I have problem with power chords. I can't play them with my index and ring finger, I need to play them with my index and pinky.

Now I'm trying to learn to play barre chords, and have a similar issue, I just can't get all my fingers in the right positions and have it ring out clearly (typically I can get about 5 of the 6 strings).

Anyone else have a similar issue? Anyone figure out a work-around?

PS - I have issues typically as well with some regular chords whenever I need my index finger on the 1st fret of the high E or B string, so this isn't new.

Also, I'm older - 45 - so not a young kid learning.

Help anyone?
Jay

Hey Jay,

Not an unusual problem. I usually use index/pinky for power chords, it's a little easier for me to hop strings and do stretched variations of a power chord. So I'd say you're OK there, nothing weird about that.

As for barre chords, they're not easy and it may take a little time for your fingers and muscles to get used to applying pressure in that way (getting the strings to all ring out clearly.) I would say give yourself a little more time on the barre chords and stay with it, you'll get there with perseverance.

Nothing wrong with using the pinky for power chords. The chords will still sound right and your fourth finger will build in strength.

Barre chords are often ver had at first. An idea is to take an open E major chord, switch 1st for 2nd finger, 2nd for 3rd, and 3rd for 4th, and practice with this position to help get used to the position of a 6th string major barre chord.

Also, try barring the index finger on its own, even before you start working on barre chords. Don't worry if not all the strings sound clear. In the case of 6th string chords, only the 6th, 1st and 2nd need to sound clear (the 3rd string also in the case of 6th string minor barre chords).

I've been learning to play guitar for less than a year; when I first tried the F barre chord, I though no way, I will NEVER be able to do that with my nearly 65 year old fingers! And now, wow, I can do it!! Now all I have to do is learn to get my fingers in place a little faster. :-) So keep at it, your fingers are 20 years younger than mine!

Just keep at it Jay - just like omaof3 says. Your perseverance will be rewarded.

First things first. Make sure you can play your power chords with both your index and pinky, as well as with your index/ring. If the power chords are giving you trouble, the barre chords will be that much harder.

Secondly, using your pinky is fine but you are at a disadvantage with that. Using your ring finger allows you to be able to use your pinky and middle fingers as extra tools to play other notes. I would get in the habit of using your index and ring so when your ready for barre chords, you can add in your pinky to play an octave up AND your middle finger to play some other notes in the chord.

Best of luck! :D