How to Play Movable Chords in Jazz Guitar

A movable chord does not use open strings. Jazz music uses a large amount of movable chords because horn players plat in E flat, B flat and A flat. Playing movable chords on the guitar is a basic skill in jazz guitar. Use movable chords to make the notes more progressive and swinging.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Create the first of the movable chords. Place your fingers into position for the first chord. For example, make the G6 chord.

2. Move your pinkie finger from the 1st string in the 3rd fret to the 3rd string of the 4 fret. Lean your middle finger onto the open 5th string and slide the fleshy part of your index finger on the 1st string. This keeps the open strings from sounding.

3. Position your fingers for a C cord in first position. Place your pinkie on the G string on the 3rd fret and mute the 1st and 6th strings. This is a C7 chord. Slide your hand down two frets to make D7.

4. Make a G6 chord. Move the second fret E down one fret to make an F. Swipe the string with your index and middle fingers. The ring and pinkie fingers stay in place.

5. Play a D7 chord. Let the open E vibrate. Make the D7 movable by fretting the E on the second string on the fifth fret.

Tips & Warnings

• Study the chords and positions to find move movable chords.