Minor Chords
Another common chord type is the minor chord. Minor chords are often described as having a "sadder" or more intense sound than major chords. The three basic minor chord shapes are shown in the following diagrams. As with previous chords, memorize each shape and then practice changing between them. Once you are comfortable with them, try the next example which uses all three shapes.
Am
Dm
Em
Visualizing
Most people have trouble changing chords smoothly at first. One way to overcome this is to practice the changes with your eyes closed and visualize each new shape in your mind before you change to it.
This helps to make sure you really know the shapes from memory and gets you into the habit of thinking ahead as you play. Try this technique with the following example, which contains almost all the chord shapes you have learned so far.
Staccato
It is not always desirable to leave a chord ringing once it has been played. In electric guitar playing it is common to cut the sound of a chord off as soon as it has been played, making the rhythm very crisp. The technique of cutting chords or notes shorter than their written value is called staccato.
With chords containing open strings, staccato is usually achieved by placing the side of the right hand across all the strings immediately after strumming the chord. Staccato is indicated by placing a dot directly above or below the intended note or chord, as shown in the following example.
Ties
In traditional notation, a tie is a curved line that connects two notes with the same position on the staff. A tie indicates that you play the first note only, and hold it for the length of both notes. Ties are not necessary in Tab notation where you can just follow the count. Here is an example which uses ties. Count carefully as you play.
This one contains ties, rests and staccato chords. You will have to disrupt your strumming momentum where the staccato chords and rests occur, but keep it going the rest of the time. This method of constant strumming above the strings is sometimes described as playing air. It is a good habit to develop as it will strengthen your sense of time.
