F#m (F sharp minor) is one of the barre chords that you just need to grid out and tackle slowly and patiently.
It might not quite as intimidating as F major chord, but it is not much easier to play.
What is F#m chord
Like any other minor chord F#m follows 1-b3-5 formula (note lowered 3rd), and it is made up of F#, A, and C# notes.
- Chord formula: 1 – b3 – 5
- Chord notes: F# – A – C#
- Alternative names: F# minor, F#min, F#−
- Common functions:
- i-chord in F# minor key
- ii-chord in E major key
- iii-chord in D major key
- vi-chord in A major key
You will probably use F#m the most in keys of D major and A major.
How to play barre F#m chord
Full F sharp minor is tough to play because of the barre across all 6 strings:
Unlike F major chord which is also very difficult to play, here your index finger has to work extra hard to keep those bottom strings from buzzing. There is not much you can do about this one. There are no real cheats for F#m chord, but there are slightly easier alternative fingerings.
Easier alternatives for F#m chord
Even in easier alternatives you will have to use barre, but it is only over the highest 3 strings.
Since the fingering pattern changes significantly for version 2, I’d recommend learning to play version 1 and slowly transitioning to full chord. You might struggle with it in the beginning, but stick with it. It will set you up for a long term success.
