The A minor chord is a fundamental chord for anyone starting their guitar journey. Often referred to as Am, this chord is typically one of the first minor chords that aspiring guitarists learn. The ‘m’ simply denotes ‘minor,’ and unlike some trickier chords, learning A Minor Note On Guitar is surprisingly straightforward and doesn’t demand any uncomfortable finger contortions. If you’ve previously encountered challenges with chords like the F major, you’ll find the Am chord refreshingly accessible.
Let’s break down how to play this essential chord step by step.
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Grasping the A Minor Chord
Chord diagram for the Am guitar chord.
If you’re new to chord diagrams, they might seem a bit confusing at first. You can learn how to read chord diagrams here. Understanding these diagrams is key to learning guitar chords effectively.
Step One
Begin by positioning your index finger on the first fret of the second thinnest string (B string). Remember, guitar strings are ordered from thinnest to thickest.
When we mention placing your finger on the “first fret,” it’s important to clarify that we mean the space just behind the metal fret, closer to the guitar’s headstock, not directly on top of the fret itself.
Referring to the diagrams above, you should place your index finger on the orange string within the orange finger zone. It should look something like this:
Step Two
Next, place your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string (D string).
Take a moment to observe your middle finger’s position. Notice how it’s nicely curved, arching over the first three strings. This curvature ensures you’re pressing down on the fourth string with just the tip of your finger.
This technique is crucial for achieving a clear and crisp sound from your a minor note on guitar.
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Step Three
Now, position your ring finger on the second fret of the third string (G string).
You’ll need to place this finger right next to your middle finger on the same fret, possibly tucking it slightly underneath.
Step Four
For some guitar chords, you strum all six strings. However, for others, including the A minor guitar chord, you only strum a selection of strings.
In the case of Am, you will strum only the thinnest five strings.
Position your pick or thumb just above the second thickest string (A string), and strum downwards, ensuring you play all the strings from the A string down to the thinnest E string. Avoid strumming the thickest E string to correctly play the a minor note on guitar.
Guitar Chord Coach for Am
Enhance your practice of the Am chord with the ChordBank App’s interactive Chord Coach feature.
ChordBank utilizes your phone’s microphone to listen as you play, providing real-time feedback and guiding you string by string, making learning a minor note on guitar more efficient and enjoyable.
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Start playing Am with Chord Coach »
Step-by-Step Chord Training](/o/chordtraining/?k=Z1WFpU>x=x921cYdcxY)
Beginner Guitar Lessons
If you’re finding it challenging to get started with guitar chords, our Chords For Beginners series offers structured lessons designed to simplify the learning process.
These lessons will guide you through essential skills such as reliably tuning your guitar, mastering fundamental chords, and developing your rhythm, all within a few days. Learning a minor note on guitar is just the beginning!
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Explore Chords for Beginners Lessons »
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Practice More Effectively
To help you practice and solidify your understanding of the A minor chord on guitar, here are direct links to ChordBank’s practice tools and engaging games specifically designed for beginners.
These links are designed to open directly within the ChordBank App on your iPhone or iPad, providing a seamless practice experience.
To truly master chords and commit them to muscle memory, consistent practice is key.
Interactive Guitar Games
Let’s make learning fun with these interactive games!
Try out Blast-o-chords or ChordPOP! to practice transitioning to and from the Am chord while making it an enjoyable game. ChordBank listens through your iPhone’s microphone and reacts to your playing by firing darts or triggering explosions as you correctly play the a minor note on guitar.
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Play Blast-o-chords: Am »
Explosions and guitar chords – a fun way to learn!](/o/game/?k=ZfPz95>x=x921cYdcxY)
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Play ChordPOP!: Am, C, and D »
Pop balloons by playing guitar chords!](/o/game/?k=Z38Wc6>x=x921cYdcxY,xdxicBWmxx,xY26cxNnxx)
Smart Flashcards for Chord Transitions
Learning to smoothly transition between chords is a critical step in progressing from just holding a guitar to actually playing music.
These smart flashcards are designed to help you master chord changes effectively.
Practicing Am to C Chord Changes
The transition from Am to C major is an excellent starting point for practicing chord changes. C major shares similar finger placements with Am, making it a natural progression.
Am
Chord diagram for the Am guitar chord.
C
Chord diagram for the C guitar chord.
These two chords utilize the same fingers and strings, allowing you to keep your index finger anchored in the same position. This simplifies the movement between chords, as you only need to adjust your middle and ring fingers. This exercise is great for practicing a minor note on guitar in the context of chord progressions.
[
Practice Am and C Transitions »
Smart Flashcards for Chord Changes](/o/flash/?k=ZSA52X>x=x921cYdcxY,xdxicBWmxx)
Chord Combinations: Am, C, Em, G
Expanding your practice to include Em (E minor) and G (G major) chords is another beneficial step. These chords together with Am and C form common chord progressions in many songs.
Am
Chord diagram for the Am guitar chord.
C
Chord diagram for the C guitar chord.
Em
Chord diagram for the Em guitar chord.
G
Chord diagram for the G guitar chord.
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Practice Am, C, Em, and G Progressions »
Smart Flashcards for Chord Practice](/o/flash/?k=1M6zd>x=x921cYdcxY,xdxicBWmxx,YBxbcxiwxY,z7xVc~rqxx)
Anna Freitas brings her expertise from Berklee College of Music and her extensive experience as a performing guitarist and vocalist in New England to this lesson. Anna is dedicated to teaching and continues to inspire students both in person and online via Skype.
