How to play Bb on guitar (and easier ways)
Bb is the A-shape barre at the 1st fret, one of the stiffest spots on the neck.
The 3D hands holding Bb. Switch to 0.5× and turn the guitar to see each finger.
Where the fingers go
- Index finger (1) lies across the 5 strings from the A (5th) to the high E (1st) at fret 1.
- Middle finger (2) on the D (4th) string, fret 3.
- Ring finger (3) on the G (3rd) string, fret 3.
- Pinky finger (4) on the B (2nd) string, fret 3.
- Do not play low E (6th).
Notes in the chord: Bb – F – D
Tips
- Play it like B major, one fret lower. Learn whichever of the two you need first; the other follows.
- Press the barre close to the fret wire to cut the force you need.
- Mute the low E with the index tip.
Easier ways to play Bb
Bb (small, 4 strings)
x x 3 3 3 1
Four strings, index on the 1st string only.
With a capo
Capo 1 and play an A shape, or capo 3 and play a G shape. Work out other keys with the capo calculator.
Practise Bb inside a real song
Paste the chords of any song that uses Bb, or snap a photo of the sheet. SnapFret plays it with the hands, and you can loop the change you find hardest.
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