How to Cheat a Bm Chord on the Guitar

Guitarists often find themselves floundering at the Bm chord, a tricky barrier to clear. It’s a common hurdle, but with a bit of creativity, you can cheat your way through it without compromising the integrity of your sound. Let’s look at some ways to navigate around the full barre chord version of Bm, while still sounding like a pro.

Why the Bm Chord Feels Like a Monster

The Bm chord is infamous among beginner guitarists for its complexity. The standard way to play it is a barre chord, which means you have to press down multiple strings with one finger. This can feel like trying to squeeze a baseball bat with one hand, especially if your fingers aren’t used to such demands. Plus, the positioning feels awkward and can lead to frustration—fast.

But why does it feel so tricky? Well, barre chords require a different kind of muscle memory. You’re not just pressing down on a single string with a fingertip; you’re using the flat part of your index finger to hold down an entire fret. It’s a workout, and just like any workout, it takes time to build strength and stamina.

Luckily, in the world of music, there’s almost always more than one way to achieve a sound. And with creativity, you can find a method that suits your current skill level while still letting you play the songs you love.

Breaking Down the Bm Chord

Before we dive into alternative ways to play Bm, it’s useful to understand what makes up the Bm chord. The B minor chord is built from three notes: B, D, and F#. When you play the full barre chord, you’re hitting all these notes across the strings.

In its full form, the Bm chord involves these notes on the fretboard:

• 2nd fret: barre across all strings with your index finger
• 3rd fret: B note on the second string with your middle finger
• 4th fret: F# note on the fourth string with your ring finger
• 4th fret: D note on the third string with your pinky

While this is the standard formation, the notes themselves are what matter. As long as you can find a way to hit these notes, you can still produce a valid Bm chord sound. Now, let’s explore some variations.

Simple Bm Variations That Don’t Require a Barre

One way to “cheat” the Bm chord is by playing a simpler version that doesn’t require barring all the strings. Try this alternative:

Place your index finger on the second fret of the high E string, middle finger on the third fret of the B string, and ring finger on the fourth fret of the G string. Ignore the lower strings; just strum the top three strings.

e|-2-
B|-3-
G|-4-
D|-0-
A|-x-
E|-x-

With this shape, you capture the essence of Bm without the barre. It won’t sound as full as the full Bm chord, but it’s a great starting point. Plus, in the context of a full band or other instruments, this simpler version can blend beautifully.

Using a Capo to Your Advantage

The capo can be a guitarist’s best friend when it comes to transposing chords to easier shapes. By placing a capo on the second fret, you can transform the Bm chord into an Am shape, which is much easier to play.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Capo on the second fret
• Am chord shape with your fingers

Play the Am shape, and voila—you’ve got a Bm chord without the barre. This trick is especially handy if you’re playing multiple songs that involve tricky chords. Just slide that capo around, and you can cheat through many difficult shapes.

Power Chords for a Heavier Sound

If you’re into metal or any genre that appreciates a bit of grit, power chords might be your go-to solution. A B5 power chord can substitute for a Bm in many contexts, especially when distortion or a heavy tone masks the lack of a minor third.

To play a B5 power chord:

e|---
B|---
G|---
D|-4-
A|-2-
E|-x-

This simplified version only uses the root and fifth, making it easier to play, particularly when you’re transitioning quickly between chords. It sacrifices the minor character of the chord, but the power and fullness can more than compensate in the right musical setting.

Partial Barre Chords: A Happy Medium

If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, but not quite ready for the full barre, try a partial barre. This version involves pressing down on the second fret of the bottom three strings with your index finger, while your other fingers handle the other notes.

e|-2-
B|-3-
G|-4-
D|-4-
A|-2-
E|-x-

This shape retains more of the full-barre sound but requires less pressure and precision. It’s a fantastic practice step towards mastering the full barre version of the Bm chord.

Open Chords and Their Substitutes

Open chords are another way to fill out your sound without resorting to barre chords. If you’re playing in a folk or acoustic setting, you might find that an open D chord can substitute for Bm in certain progressions. It doesn’t carry the same minor quality, but it can work if you’re in a pinch.

Here’s how you play a D chord:

e|-2-
B|-3-
G|-2-
D|-0-
A|---
E|---

For songs where the mood isn’t heavily reliant on that minor third, this can be a lifesaver. Experimentation is key—let your ear guide you when deciding if this substitution works.

Leverage Technology: Guitar Apps and Tools

If you’re still struggling, consider using technology to your advantage. Apps that offer chord diagrams and virtual fretboards can provide interactive ways to learn and practice alternative chord forms. They can be incredibly helpful for visual learners.

Additionally, platforms like Riffhard offer lessons from top guitarists who break down techniques in digestible ways. By watching how experienced players handle tough chords, you can pick up tips that you might not find elsewhere.

Practice Routines to Build Finger Strength

At the end of the day, nothing beats consistent practice. Incorporate finger exercises into your daily routine to build the strength and dexterity needed for more challenging chords. Simple exercises like spider drills can work wonders for your barre chord capability.

• Start with a metronome at a comfortable speed.
• Use all four fingers, moving up and down the fretboard.
• Focus on clean transitions and even pressure.

Over time, these exercises will strengthen your fingers, making the full Bm chord—and many other barre chords—a lot more approachable.

Final Thoughts

Tackling the Bm chord doesn’t have to feel like climbing Everest. With these alternatives, you’ll find the right fit for your style and skill level. If you’re keen to dive deeper into mastering chords and other guitar techniques, we at Riffhard offer lessons tailored to help you progress faster and easier. Remember, every guitarist faces challenges—it’s how you adapt and overcome them that shapes your journey.