Level 3 · Classical technique · 20 min
The six-string barre
By the end you can sound an F chord on six strings and release the hand between attempts.
Before this lesson
Lesson steps
1 Prepare a small barre
Place the small barre close to the indicated fret.
4 min · Quarter note = 48, 1 note per click
Check for · The required strings are covered without muting the others.
More detail
A partial barre covers just a few strings; a full barre covers all six. Choose an actual barre from a passage in your tab.
2 Check string by string
Sound all six strings of F from bass to treble.
4 min · Quarter note = 44, 1 note per click
Check for · Each required string sounds clearly.
More detail
F reads 1–3–3–2–1–1, from string 6 to string 1.
3 Reduce the pressure
Reduce index pressure until you hear the first buzz.
4 min · Quarter note = 44, 1 note per click
Check for · The sound stays clear with less effort.
More detail
Restore only enough pressure for a clear sound. A tiny change of index position can also free the string.
4 Release between attempts
Release the pressure completely on each rest.
4 min · Quarter note = 44, 1 note per click
Check for · You alternate useful pressure with release.
More detail
Keep the written rests. Alternate short trials with listening to the resonance.
5 Put it back in the phrase
Prepare the barre in Lágrima from the preceding bar.
4 min · Quarter note = 44, 1 note per click
Check for · The connection stays clear without squeezing in advance.
More detail
Find the last contact before the change. Look ahead to the destination.
You can move on when…
You pass when all six strings of F sound separately on two successive placements.
If a movement feels difficult
One string under the barre buzzes.
Check each string separately and move your index finger a little closer to the fret.
You keep holding the barre during pauses.
Release all pressure between attempts.