F Major Chord

The Formula of the Chord

The F major chord is a staple in guitar playing, known for its strong and resonant sound. The formula for a major chord consists of three intervals: the root (R), the major third (3), and the perfect fifth (5). For the F major chord, the specific notes involved are:

• Root (R): F
• Major Third (3): A
• Perfect Fifth (5): C

In the F major chord that uses three fingers while barring the B and E strings, the voicing we play includes these notes distributed across the strings as follows:

• 4th string (D): F (R)
• 3rd string (G): A (3)
• 2nd string (B): C (5) (barred)
• 1st string (E): F (R) (barred)

How to Play the Chord

To play the F major chord using three fingers while barring the B and E strings, follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Index Finger: Place your index finger across the 1st fret of both the 1st string (high E string) and the 2nd string (B string). This will produce the notes F (R) on the 1st string and C (5) on the 2nd string.
2. Middle Finger: Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string (G string). This will produce the note A (3).
3. Ring Finger: Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 4th string (D string). This will produce the note F (R).

Ensure your index finger is pressing down firmly across the 1st fret of the 1st and 2nd strings to get a clear sound from both strings. The remaining strings (3rd and 4th) should be pressed down by the middle and ring fingers, respectively.

Strum from the 4th string down to the 1st string to play the F major chord. Avoid playing the 5th string (A string) and the 6th string (E string) as they are not part of this chord voicing.

Chord Visualisation

Below is the tablature to help you visualise the F major chord:

Tablature:

e|---1---| (Index Finger, barred)
B|---1---| (Index Finger, barred)
G|---2---| (Middle Finger)
D|---3---| (Ring Finger)
A|---x---| (Do not play)
E|---x---| (Do not play)

By following these instructions, you should be able to play the F major chord using three fingers while barring the B and E strings effectively.