Hey Friend,

So far, we've seen F# minor as the IIIm chord in the key of D major. Now, it shows up as the VIm chord in the key of A major. It will come along again in one more major key and three minor keys.

If you're playing a song in A, the VIm chord is going to be used a lot, so might as well get used to seeing this one.

The VIm chord is always a good one for creating tension in the progression. Our ears (brains) like resolution, so any chord that feels like it's leading you away from the root note or chord will make things more interesting that if you just had major chords keeping things happy. The minor chord gives your brain a puzzle to solve - "How am I going to get back to the comfort of the happy sounds?"

It's like adding a little sea salt to some chocolate and caramel (or bacon!).  The salt takes you outside the pure sweetness and give some contrast or conflict. It also gives you something to look forward to when you return to the sweetness of the candy once the salt has dissolved.

F# minor consists of the F#, A and C# notes. While you'll most like see F#m shown as a barer chord in tabs  there are a number of simpler versions i show in the positions exercises. Make sure to get familiar with those so you have options.

I've been off work for the past couple days, and today's the first day back before the Christmas break (or not). Hope it goes fast... Come on, 5 o'clock!

Peace~

Dave