How to play B-minor chord (Bm)

Lesson #59 • Apr 21, 2017

Note about a mistake in the video…

From 1:25 to 2:23 of the video above, I forgot to update the chord graphic I have on the screen. This is the part where I talk about putting your index finger down to barre the 2nd fret. If you’re viewing on a large screen (desktop or laptop), you’ll see the YouTube annotations I added to semi-correct this. On mobile, though, you won’t see this – so just be aware. I do show the proper chart at the beginning and end of the video (x24432).

How to play B-minor chord on guitar

In this quick practice tip, I’ll show you how to play the dreaded B minor chord. B minor is one of the first barre chords you’ll run into –which can be difficult to learn. I’ll walk you through it step by step, showing you how to play it with and without barring your index finger. This is a fantastic “first” barre chord to learn, as it is far easier than playing F. Best of all, learning B minor will help you build the finger muscles you’ll need to finally learn F too :)

Here’s the quick diagram, with finger positions noted. See my video for more detail!

E –––2–––  <-- left index finger (barred)
B –––3–––  <-- left middle finger
G –––4–––  <-- left pinky finger
D –––4–––  <-- left ring finger
A –––2–––  <-- left index finger (barred)
E –––––––
     Bm

Looking for Easier Ways to Play B Minor?

Check out my lesson teaching you several easier ways to play this chord, all of which do not require barring across the thinnest five strings.

Simpler Ways to Play B Minor

★ Instructional PDF

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How to play B-minor chord (Bm)

Note about a mistake in the video…

How to play B-minor chord on guitar

Looking for Easier Ways to Play B Minor?

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Recent Lessons