How to bar on a guitar?

Question

I'm finding it really difficult to bar on an acoustic guitar. Can anyone suggest a few tips in order to allow me to do this?

Answer 1

chuck it out the door and shout you're barred

Answer 2

It is difficult. You have to develop a strong finger and press your thumb into the back of the neck. Try to avoid the 'Folk' grip when holding down chords ie your thunb hanging round the side of the neck. Your thumb should be pressing the back of the neck nearly always. difficult but effective in developing a strong barring finger. Many people don't bother and use a Capo.

Answer 3

It is all about developing the strength in the left hand to hold down all the strings.

I remember when I was first using Barre chords, my l hand really ached after only a minute or two.

After a time you realise that you can play Barre chords almost all the time.  (I prefer using them than open chords as they give totally differnt ability to play riffs etc.)

Just stick with t,  it will come.

Answer 4

Ok first it's not always easy to barre on an acoustic.  I don't know how long you've been playing but you have to develop some good hand strength.  Also if your playing on a guitar whose strings are to high off the fret (know as action) because of a problem with the neck or string guage it can sometimes make it really hard....Barre chords are obviously much easier on an electric but also used on acoustics often... If you can get over this hurdle you will find nothing else as difficult when it comes to playing guitar.. So just keep practicing, do some finger exercises every day, and DONT give up... You will get it.. Promise...    

Answer 5

Move your thumb down to the lower part of the neck, gives you a better grip.

It's all about practise. Once you have got your hand into position. Play each string individually until none of the strings buzz. If a string does buzz then you have to adjust your position.

Good luck! It takes a while but once you've got the nack then your ready to rock!