While there are a lot of bar chord shapes you could learn, there are only 4 essential shapes. Master these and you will feel like you can play any chord, anywhere, on the guitar.

There is a reason why so many guitarists hate bar chords. It is really easy to develop bad habits and focus not the wrong things. Watch this video to make sure you avoid these pitfalls.

With this technical lesson, you should be able to play a bar chord even if you have never been able to do so before!

Did you know the barring finger is really only responsible for 2-4 strings on a barre chord? The others are covered by your other fingers and are just as important! When you master this open chord exercise it won't be too hard to add the bar on later.

Alright, it's time to start barring! Remember to have a lot of grace with yourself here and to not be too perfectionistic.

The 2nd essential shape. Adding this chord shape will add a great dynamic to your playing.

Don't skip the open A shape exercise. It will prepare you to make the most difficult shape yet.

The dreaded A shape bar chord isn't so difficult once you have done all of the steps leading up to it. Pay careful attention to your technique and you will be good to go!

This chord shape should feel familiar as it is very similar to the E shape bar chord.

Ready to prove you have mastered the art of the bar chord? This advanced exercise will prepare you for any music you encounter.

Just a touch of theory so you can locate and play any chord without having to look it up. Man, you're starting to look like a real guitarist over there!