How to Play Guitar in the Key of D

The key of D is a great key to learn, because it uses some of the most common chords in guitar-based music. This key is also one that lies in a good range for most singers.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Guitar Amplifiers
• Guitar Cables
• Guitar Cases
• Guitar Picks
• Guitar Slide
• Guitar Stands
• Guitar Straps
• Guitars
• Metronome
• Set Of Guitar Strings
• Sheet Music For Guitar
• Electronic Tuner For Guitars

Playing the D Chord

1. Review and memorize the names of the strings. Lowest to highest, they are E-A-D-G-B-E.
2. Place your ring finger on the third fret of the B string.
3. Place your middle finger on the second fret of the high E string.
4. Place your index finger on the second fret of the G string.
5. Strum the chord downward from lowest strings toward the highest.

Playing the G, A and B-Minor Chords

6. Place your middle finger on the third fret of the low E string to begin the G chord.
7. Place your index finger on the second fret of the A string.
8. Place your pinky on the third fret of the high E string.
9. Strum the strings downward to play the G chord.
10. Place your index finger on the second fret of the D string to begin the A chord.
11. Place your middle finger on the second fret of the G string.
12. Place your ring finger on the second fret of the B string.
13. Strum the strings downward to play the A chord.
14. Lay your index finger across all the strings on the second fret firmly to begin the B-minor chord.
15. Place your middle finger on the third fret of the B string.
16. Place your ring finger on the fourth fret of the D string.
17. Place your pinky on the fourth fret of the G string.
18. Strum the strings downward to play the B-minor chord.

Playing in the Key of D

19. Freely strum the sequence D, G, A. Disregard tempo and meter for now.
20. Strum each chord four times repeating the sequence of D, G, A.
21. Strum D four times, G two times, and A two times and repeat.
22. Repeat Step 21 while keeping a steady tempo. Use a metronome if accessible.
23. Strum D four times, G two times, and A four times.
24. Strum each chord two times.
25. Strum D two times, G two times, B-minor four times, and A four times.
26. Experiment with your own variations and progressions.

Tips & Warnings

• In order to make the D chord sound completely authentic, arch your thumb around the neck of the guitar and mute the low E string lightly. E is not one of the three notes in the D-major chord (D-F#-A).
• It is a nice option to add the ring finger on the third fret of the B string while playing the G chord. This change gives the chord a much fuller sound.
• It is a good idea to mute the low E string on the A chord as well. Use the same technique as explained in the tips for the D chord: Arch your thumb around the neck of the guitar and mute the low E string lightly.
• It is very important to keep your index finger firmly against the fretboard when playing the B-minor chord. All notes should sound out equally and should not get a buzzing sound.
• B-minor requires twice the amount of practice as the other three chords. Practice it after you have mastered D, G, and A.
• If you experience a buzzing sound from the guitar, your fingers may not be pressed down all the way or might be touching the actual frets.