Hey Friend,

This is a short work week for many folks here in the States, so the timing is perfect for a review of the mighty B minor chord. We saw it first as the IIIm chord of the key of G major, and here we are again in the key of D with the chord representing.

This time the B minor chord plays the role of the VIm chord, a much more critical position in the key. You will use it a lot in many Rock songs, since the key of D and the I - VIm - V - IV progression are extremely popular.

B minor was one of those chords I fought with for years because I didn't understand inversions or all the various shapes and positions you can use. Well, understand is an exaggeration - I just didn't know anything about alternatives to the root 5 barre chord of B minor. I didn't even know to ask.

You have been spared that lack of knowledge because I want you to know there are alternatives you can use today that don't require barring strings. You can use shapes that are much easier to play and give you the chance to strengthen up your fingers.

B minor consists of the B, D and F# notes as the 1 3m 5 from the key of B major. As you can see, the notes of the D major scale work to provide the notes we need:

D  E  F#  G  A   B  C# 

The B minor chord is found in these major keys:

   

There are also three minor keys, which are B minor, E minor and F# minor:

If you've only seen B minor as a barre chord, you should take a little comfort in knowing you have more options. I know barre chords are frustrating for many people, especially if you're learning guitar with an acoustic. 

On the plus side, those of us that start with an acoustic guitar end up with some pretty strong hands! When I finally started playing an electric, I had to relax a little because I kept pressing the strings too hard. On the plus side, though, barre chords were never an issue again.

Hope your work day goes fast so you can get to some fun!

Peace~

Dave