In this lesson you will discover a mass of chords, with the root in the bass, derived from two simple chord shapes, done by adding and moving one or more fingers and … thinking a bit.

The two shapes we will be using are major chord shapes.  If you look at the fretboard diagram for "Root on the 6th string", you will see that on the 5th string the perfect 5th (5) is in yellow. Now it’s only a question of logical thinking.  When you want to change the fifth to an augmented fifth (#5 or +5) you just have to move your finger one fret in the direction of the sound hole.  If you want to play a fourth you move your finger two frets in the direction of the nut.  At the 4th string you will notice that the 1 (1 or 8) is yellow.  So if you want to play a M7 you put your finger one fret up to the nut.  For a minor chord you simply move your finger from the 3rd (in yellow) to the b3 on the third string, etc.  Incredibly simple.  You have just to remember the order of the intervals. (see part 2)

Root On The 6th String

Note: the extensions 9,11,13 and their alterations b9,#9,#11 are mostly played on the strings (1),(2),(3), but this is not a rule.

The names of the intervals are written on the frets above the ‘string’, for practical purposes.

See other lesson's by Gilbert through his web site.

About the Author

Renowned Belgian guitarist Gilbert Isbin's early influences, from blues to contemporary jazz, classical, ethnic and freeform music, has ultimately contributed to his now distinctive and refined style. His music is filled with strong melodies, rich colorful harmonies, sound effects and polyrythms, highlighted by delicate acoustic guitar picking.