F# minor Chord
F#m (pronounced - F sharp minor) is one of the chords my friends liked to flex when I was just learning open chords. You'll find that most diagrams show a barre shape. That's fine, but most beginners can't play barres cleanly. I'll show you an easy shape you can play today, a middle step, and a full barre you can work towards.
F# minor
Symbol: F#m
Notes: F#, A, C#
Type: Minor
Variations: 4 positions shown
Easy (no barre)
F# minor
- Index finger on 2nd fret of G string (3rd string)
- Middle finger on 2nd fret of B string (2nd string)
- Ring finger on 2nd fret of high E string (1st string)
Strum the top three strings. Do not play the low E, A, or D strings. You can also play the same thing by doing a barre with your index finger on the top three strings on 2nd fret.
Intermediate (partial barre)
F# minor
- Barre your index finger across the top three strings at the 2nd fret
- Place ring finger on 4th fret of D string (4th string)
Strum the top four strings. It's an easy shape. Plus, you are playing the F# (the root note) on 4th string so you're playing the correct technical version.
Standard (barre)
F# minor
- Index finger barre across all six strings at 2nd fret
- Ring finger on 4th fret of A string (5th string)
- Pinky on 4th fret of D string (4th string)
Strum all strings. Root (F#) is on the low E string. You don't really have to feel bad if you cannot play a barre yet, any shape is fine. Play what you can.
Common mistakes & fixes
- Buzzing sounds on barre: roll your index finger slightly onto its side and bring your elbow in.
- Muted high strings: keep the barre close to the fret wire, not in the middle of the fret. Get action checked if it's still hard
- Ring/pinky collapsing: keep them arched. Practice the shape without the barre first.
- Hand tires quickly: Fine. Do 10-30 seconds, rest. Repeat. Stop and rest if there's a sharp pain.