How to Play Minor Bass Chords

When we think of bass, we don't often think of chords. Bass playing is usually reserved to only playing melody lines, but when used in the right setting bass chords can sound great. We will learn a basic minor chord shape and show how you can move this shape all over your fretboard.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Place your pinky on the fifth fret of your E string (4th string.) The fifth fret is the note A, which will be the root of our chord, A minor.

2. Place your middle finger on the third fret of the of the A string (3rd string).

3. Place your pointer finger on the second fret of the D string (2nd string).

4. Play all of the strings together by either hitting them with one strum of your pick or pluck each of the notes with your individual fingers. Either technique is fine. Your approach will depend on your playing style and personal preference.

5. Move the chord shape to another position on your guitar. The great thing about the chord shape you just learned is that it can be used anywhere on the fretboard. Instead of starting on the fifth fret, try starting on the seventh fret and follow steps 1 through 4 again. You are now playing a B minor chord instead of an A minor chord. Try moving the shape to the tenth fret. Now you are play a D minor chord. You can move this shape to any fret on your E string. That will allow you to play every minor chord possible in any key.

Tips & Warnings

• It may be difficult for you to stretch your fingers far enough to play these chords when you first start practicing. Don't give up. Playing chords on a bass is much more difficult than it is on a regular guitar. The frets on a bass are much further apart. It will take your fingers some time to get used to the idea of stretching so far, but with time it will happen!