Minor · intermediate · barre chord
Ab minor(Abm)
A movable minor chord using the E-string root shape. The diagram shows a barre voicing for Ab.
Notes
Intervals
Finger placement
- AIndex finger (1): barre across all six strings.
- BRing and pinky fingers: fret the A and D strings two frets above the barre.
Your progress
Not tracked yet
Sounding notes shown below · low E on the left
Choose a string to hear its note.
String & finger reference
| String | Fret | Finger | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 · low E | 4 | 1 | G# · root |
| 5 · A | 6 | 3 | D# |
| 4 · D | 6 | 4 | G# · root |
| 3 · G | 4 | 1 | B |
| 2 · B | 4 | 1 | D# |
| 1 · high E | 4 | 1 | G# · root |
Common mistakes
- The index barre leaves a muted or buzzing string.
- Pressing harder than needed instead of placing the index close behind the fret.
Coaching tips
- Build the shape from the index barre, then add the other fingers one at a time.
- Practice this movable shape higher up the neck first, where the strings need less pressure.
Troubleshooting
Several strings buzz under the barre
Roll the index finger slightly toward its bony edge and move it just behind the fret.
The hand gets tired quickly
Release between short repetitions. Use only enough thumb and index pressure to make the notes ring.
Frequently asked questions
What notes are in the Ab minor chord?
Ab minor contains Ab, Cb, Eb — the intervals R, b3, 5 from the root Ab.
Is Ab minor a beginner chord?
Ab minor is rated intermediate and uses a barre. A movable minor chord using the E-string root shape. The diagram shows a barre voicing for Ab.
Ab minor: several strings buzz under the barre — what should I do?
Roll the index finger slightly toward its bony edge and move it just behind the fret.
Ab minor: the hand gets tired quickly — what should I do?
Release between short repetitions. Use only enough thumb and index pressure to make the notes ring.