In the world of music, there are a lot of different chords which comprise the sonic palette of every musician (unless of course, you’re a drummer- but even if you are, keep reading; there’s an opportunity to learn here). An open chord is one where none of the notes being played are flats or sharps. An open chord is typically the first, third and fifth notes of a scale. One of the more commonly used chords other than these are 7th chords: among them, D7, C7 and G7 to name a few.

To play a G7 chord on a guitar:
* Finger the third fret of the sixth string using your ring finger.
* Finger the second fret of the fifth string, using your middle finger.
* Finally, finger the first fret of the first string, using your index finger.
* The other three strings will be played open, which is to say unfingered.

With some practice, you’ll find it easy to keep your fingers curled to stay on the proper frets. Now, strum the chord. In a G7 cord, there is a difference of only one note from what is played in a G major chord.

Similarly, the C7 chord is played with only a one note difference from those found in a C major chord. When playing a C7 chord, begin by forming a C major chord on your fretboard as follows:
* Ring finger, third fret, fifth string.
* Middle finger, second fret, fourth string.
* Index finger, first fret, second string.

Then add to this:
* Pinky finger, third fret, third string. Now strum the five bottom strings to play the C7 chord.

To play a D7 Chord (much like D major, but with the seventh note added):
* Middle finger on the second fret of the third string.
* Index finger, on the first fret of the second string.
* Ring finger on the second fret of the first string.
* now strum the bottom four strings to play this chord.

When looking at the chord charts for these chords, strings which will not be strummed are represented with an X above them. To make sure that you are playing the chord correctly, first pluck each note on its own. Practice these chords, as well as moving from chord to chord. Try saying the name of the chords as you play them to get accustomed to the name, fingering and sound of each one.

A 9th chord is just like a 7th chord, but with an added ninth (a ninth is one octave higher than the starting note; known as a tonic, plus two frets).

A ninth chord is composed of: 1-3-5-b7-9.
The major 7th minor 9th chord is: 1-3-5-7-9
The minor 7th minor 9th chord is: 1-b3-5-b7-9

The major 9th chords are: -

* A = A-C#-E-G#-B
* B = B-D#-F#-A#-C#
* C = C-E-G-B-D
* D = D-F#-A-C#-E
* E = E-G#-B-D#-F#
* F = F-A-C-E-G
* G = G-B-D-F#-A

Other Related posts:

1. Practicing the Electric Bass Guitar
2. Are Chords Important In Learning to Play Electric Bass Guitar?

Classical guitar playing is what is participated in when using a classical guitar. This kind of guitar has no electronics and no pick-ups. In general it has six strings although there are some classical guitars which have twelve strings. The thinner strings known as the trebles are made from nylon and the bass strings are nylon with brass wire wrapped around them.

As far as construction is concerned the classical guitar is hollow and shaped like a pear. Its is made from wood, usually two or three different types, the cheap and nasty varieties being built with a plywood top, whilst those worth buying are made from woods such as rosewood.

The resonance produced by the classical guitar does not rely on an amplifier or any other sound effects. It comes direct from the hollow part of the instrument through the sound hole as the strings resound over it.

Most players of classical guitars remain seated whilst playing. The other main difference which sets this type of guitar apart from others is the kind of playing involved. Classical guitar playing can be characterized by the style of music played which is usually considered to be of value due to the length of time it has been around, compared to the many pop tunes which come and go in the blink of an eye.

The strings are usually plucked using the thumb and fingers of the right hand when learning to play this kind of instrument. This means you will have no use for a pick. Strumming of the classical guitar is only used as a special effect.

When learning to play a classical guitar you will probably practice sight reading sheet music along with discovering technical concepts and how they should be applied. Rather than trying to learn on your own, it’s best to have a classical guitar teacher and although it may take you quite some time to become skillful, you are sure to enjoy the learning process. It is important that you choose a teacher whose style suits your personality as many of them teach in different ways, some formal and some informal. Whatever style you choose to learn to play the classical guitar, you are certain to find this a worthwhile pastime until you have developed your talents to the full.

Classical guitar playing – what exactly is it?

Well one thing is for sure. It’s not about jumping around on a stage screaming out to your audience whilst thrashing away at your guitar. That’s electric guitar playing and brilliantly talented as it is, it’s a whole different story.

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