Learning Guitar - Lesson Two

By Dan Cross, About.com Guide

Last week, we learned three types of chords: Gmajor, Cmajor, and Dmajor. In this second lesson, we'll explore a new type of chord... a "minor" chord. The terms "major" and "minor" are terms used to describe the sound of the chord. In very basic terms, a major chord sounds happy, while a minor chord sounds sad (listen to the difference between major and minor chords). Most songs will contain a combination of both major and minor chords.

Playing an E minor chord

Easiest chord first... playing an Eminor chord only involves using two fingers in your fretting hand. Start by placing your second finger on the second fret of the fifth string. Now, place your third finger on the second fret of the fourth string. Strum all six strings, and, there you have it, an Eminor chord!

Now, like last lesson, test yourself to make sure you're playing the chord properly. Starting on the sixth string, strike each string one at a time, making sure each note in the chord is ringing clearly. If not, study your fingers, and identify what the problem is. Then, try to adjust your fingering so the problem goes away.