Barre Chords and Acoustics...

[Mr.Hand]

Hi, when I try to play a barre chord on my acousic, I have to grip the strings like crazy and I still cant get a sound out of half of the strings. Any suggestions?

[kitara]

Well ...
You'll have to practice, no other chance ... it's the best way to get the strength that is necessary to hold barree chords.

I'm now playing acoustic guitar for almost 3 years, and I'm still getting problems with this wicked chords when I'm not really warmed up.

[cyberfret]

Barre chords are definitely more difficult on the acoustic. It takes a lot of presser. If you are a beginner, I might suggest that you switch to an extra light string (like Martin Extra Lights). This will make the barre chords a little easier to play. You can latter switch back to a heavier string if you want.

Check out this lesson on barre chords.
http://www.cyberfret.com/chords/barre/index.htm

Also this new article from Jamey Andreas
http://www.cyberfret.com/power-practicing/easy-bar-chords.php

--Shawn