How to Barre on the Guitar

Barre chords can be the elusive creature in the wild world of guitar playing, especially if you're into metal genres where power and precision reign supreme. Whether you're cranking out thrash metal riffs or diving into the complex realms of progressive metal, mastering barre chords is a skill you can't overlook. Let's dig into what makes these chords crucial for every guitarist and how you can conquer them with a mix of technique and practice.

Getting a Grip on Barre Chords

So, what exactly are barre chords? Imagine your index finger as a capo, pressing down on all the strings across a particular fret. This technique allows you to play chords not just in open positions, but all over the fretboard, giving you a versatile toolkit for any genre. The beauty of barre chords lies in their moveable nature, especially useful in metal where quick shifts and changes in tonal color happen often.

To get started, place your index finger flat across the strings at a fret of your choice and use your other fingers to form the rest of the chord. A popular starting point is the E-shape barre chord, which is essentially an E major chord moved up the neck. Try it around the fifth fret to begin with; this position is often more forgiving for beginners.

• Place your index finger flat across all six strings at the fifth fret.
• Use your middle finger on the G-string, two frets up from your index finger.
• Put your ring finger on the A-string, two frets up from your index finger.
• Press your pinky on the D-string, two frets up from your index finger.

Once you've got that down, strum all six strings and let the sound resonate. If it sounds a bit off, don't worry. It takes time and practice for your fingers to develop the strength and precision needed for clean barre chords.

Finger Strength: Building the Foundation

Let's face it—barre chords can be tough on your fingers. You might experience a bit of discomfort initially, but building finger strength is crucial. Think of it like hitting the gym for your hands. The stronger they get, the easier it becomes to hold those chords without buzzing or muting strings.

One effective way to build up that strength is through simple exercises. Start with pressing down on individual strings with your index finger across a fret. Hold it for a few seconds and release. This exercise helps in developing the muscles needed to maintain pressure across multiple strings.

Another exercise is the classic "spider" exercise, where you alternate finger positions up and down the fretboard. This not only builds strength but also enhances dexterity—essential for those quick chord changes in metal music.

• Place your index finger on the first fret of the low E string.
• Use your middle finger on the second fret of the A string.
• Move your ring finger to the third fret of the D string.
• Finish with your pinky on the fourth fret of the G string.

This exercise might feel awkward at first, but with regular practice, it becomes second nature.

Proper Technique: Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Technique can make or break your barre chord success. A common mistake is letting your index finger become "lazy" and not apply even pressure across the strings. To counteract this, focus on the positioning of your thumb. It should rest halfway down the neck, providing counter-pressure to your index finger.

Additionally, ensure your wrist is not bent at a sharp angle. A straighter wrist provides more leverage and reduces strain. Your elbow should be tucked into your body, not flaring out. This positioning helps in maintaining the strength and stamina needed for longer playing sessions.

Don't forget about your strumming hand, either. In metal genres, the right hand often does the heavy lifting with aggressive, rhythmic strumming. Practice your downstrokes and alternate picking to maintain the tempo and intensity needed for metal riffs.

Practicing with Purpose

Simply noodling around with barre chords won't get you the results you want. Structured practice is essential. Start by incorporating barre chords into your practice routine, focusing on clean transitions between chords. Use a metronome to keep time and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

Break it down into manageable sections. For instance, focus on just the E-shape barre chord for a week before moving on to A-shape barre chords. Consistency is key—regular, focused practice sessions will yield better results than sporadic, unfocused ones.

And remember, it's perfectly normal to hit a plateau. When that happens, take a step back and assess what might be causing the issue. Is it finger strength? Technique? Timing? Identifying the problem is the first step in overcoming it.

Integrating Barre Chords into Metal Playing

Now, let's talk about how to incorporate barre chords into your metal playing. In genres like djent and metalcore, barre chords can add depth and complexity to your riffs. They're not just for playing rhythm; they can be used for creating intricate lead sections as well.

Try experimenting with different chord voicings and positions on the neck. For instance, shifting a barre chord up a few frets can create a completely different mood in your music. This is especially useful in progressive metal, where dynamic shifts and tonal variations are common.

Additionally, combine barre chords with techniques like palm muting and alternate picking. This combination can create the "chugging" sound often heard in metalcore and thrash metal, adding a layer of intensity to your playing.

Riffhard's Role in Your Journey

At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists, like Dean Lamb and Aaron Marshall, who can guide you through the nuances of barre chords. Our library includes over 150 video lessons, covering everything from rhythm guitar techniques to lead guitar intricacies, perfect for honing your barre chord skills.

We also provide a custom metronome and downloadable tabs, making it easier to integrate barre chords into your practice routine. Plus, with our Shredule, a bi-weekly lesson plan, you can stay on track and continually challenge yourself as you progress.

Overcoming Barre Chord Challenges

Every guitarist faces challenges with barre chords, whether it's finger fatigue or muted strings. To tackle these issues, focus on finger placement and pressure. Make sure each string rings out clearly by adjusting your finger position ever so slightly until you find the sweet spot.

If you're struggling with finger fatigue, take regular breaks during practice. It's better to have multiple short sessions rather than one long, exhausting one. Over time, your fingers will adapt, and you'll be able to play for longer periods without discomfort.

Another tip is to experiment with different guitars and string gauges. Sometimes, a guitar with a lower action or lighter gauge strings can make barre chords more manageable, especially for beginners.

Real-Life Applications: Learning from the Greats

Look to some of your favorite metal guitarists for inspiration. Many renowned players, like Zakk Wylde and Jason Richardson, utilize barre chords in their riffs and solos. Analyze their songs and try to incorporate similar techniques into your practice.

For example, take a riff from a song you love and try to identify where barre chords are used. Practice playing it slowly, focusing on clean transitions and accurate finger placement. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase your speed.

By studying the styles of different guitarists, you can gather a variety of techniques and ideas to incorporate into your own playing. This not only helps with barre chords but also enhances your overall musicality and creativity.

Staying Motivated: The Journey of Guitar Playing

Learning barre chords can be a challenging journey, but it's an essential step in becoming a well-rounded guitarist. Stay motivated by setting small, achievable goals and celebrating your progress along the way. Remember, every guitarist started somewhere, and with dedication, you can achieve your musical aspirations.

Connect with other guitarists, whether online or in person, to share experiences and learn from each other. Communities like Riffhard offer a space to engage with fellow musicians, participate in contests, and receive feedback on your playing.

Ultimately, the key to mastering barre chords lies in patience and perseverance. With time and effort, you'll find yourself playing them with ease, opening up new possibilities in your metal journey.

Final Thoughts

Barre chords are a fundamental skill that every guitarist should master, especially if you're into metal. They offer versatility and the ability to explore new musical territories. At Riffhard, we provide resources to help you tackle barre chords and more, with lessons from some of the best metal guitarists in the world. Dive into our library and start refining your skills today.