Barre Chord
Techniques
A chord where one finger presses multiple strings across the same fret.
A barre chord (sometimes spelled "bar chord") is formed by pressing one finger flat across two or more strings at the same fret, while other fingers fret additional notes. This technique lets you move a single chord shape up and down the neck to play any key.
On the ukulele, barre chords are easier than on guitar because you only have four strings to cover. The most common barre chord shape is the B♭ major shape — lay your index finger across all four strings at the first fret, then add your middle and ring fingers to form the chord.
Barre chords unlock the entire fretboard. Once you learn one barre shape, you can slide it to any fret to play a different chord. For example, the B♭ shape at the first fret is B♭, at the third fret it becomes C, and at the fifth fret it becomes D.
Roll your barring finger slightly onto its side (toward the nut) rather than pressing flat. The bony edge of your finger creates a firmer, cleaner barre with less effort.
Related Terms
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