Adding Another String

Now let's try adding one more string to both of the chords, to make them a little bit fuller sounding.

We'll add the 2nd fret of the D-string. I'm fretting this note with my middle finger, but you should also try it with your index finger and see which one you prefer.

Now you'll see why it's important that your fingertip is coming in at a straight angle. This is the very common mistake, where the finger is hitting the fretboard at an angle and therefore laying down and muting the strings below it. So try to raise up that fingertip!

Sometimes it's helpful to move your thumb on the back of the neck a little closer to the floor, which moves the fingers away from the fretboard.

Anders Mouridsen
Instructor Anders Mouridsen
Styles:
Any Style
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Adding Another String song notation

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Questions & Answers

I know you mentioned it in the video but I'm struggling to not accidentally fret G alongside D when trying to only fret D, any other tips?! 1 month ago
Josh Workman 1 month ago

Hi, try moving the finger around a little until it stops pressing the second note down. You may end up with an open note ringing out. At this point then try angling the finger just enough to mute the string without pressing it down. It's a little hard to know what you're up against without seeing/hearing it. Depending on your subscription, you can always send a feedback video about the problem and one of us can give you some tips.

Earlier lesson said playing the top 3 strings was the E Minor Chord. Now this lesson uses the top 4 strings combined with 2nd Fret on the D string and it is still called the E Minor Chord? Confused? 3 months ago
Josh Workman 3 months ago

Hi Rick, good question! I recommend taking the chord theory class: https://www.guitartricks.com/lesson/9216 On a basic level, chords are derived from scales by stacking every other note from any starting point until you have three notes or a "triad." The G major scale is G A B C D E F# G. If you stack G B and D in any order, you have some kind of G major chord. G is the root, B is the major 3rd, and D is what we call the "perfect" 5th. These are intervals or musical distance measures, like inches on a ruler. If you stack E G and B, you get an E minor chord. Notice that the three-note G major chord that Anders played doesn't have a D. It still functions as G chord because it has G and B, the root and major 3rd. The 3rd of the chord tells you if it's major or minor. He instead has two Gs and a B. When he adds D as the 4th voice, you now have D G B G, a full G major chord with an extra G. Now try skipping every other note of the G major scale, starting on E until you have E G B. This is E minor, no matter what order the notes are stacked. So, if he adds another E underneath, it's still E minor. In fact, now you can REALLY hear E minor, since the root (E) is now in the bass. I hope this helps just enough for you to want to take that chord theory class! Josh Workman, GT instructor