Welcome to part 2 in my series of blogs about the CAGED system. So now you know all 5 of the major chord shapes in the open position and you're ready for the next challenge...The premise of this one is simple but can be deceptively tricky.
In the diagram below we have the same 5 major chords but this time we will play them without our index finger. Removing the 1st finger from the equation provides a way to ensure the other 3 fingers on the fretting hand can the develop strength and dexterity necessary to play chords in other positions.
Practice time: You can integrate these chord fingerings into your practice sessions by playing the following two I IV V progressions for 5 minutes each a day.
In the key of G
G // C // D // G
In the key of A
A // D // E // A
Select a tempo 50-60bpm
Play each chord for 8 beats
Repeat the chord progression 3 times
Then
Play each chord for 4 beats
Repeat the chord progression 3 times
Then
Change key
The name of the game is clarity not speed
Aim to make all the notes in the chords ring clearly
Changes should be smooth not jumpy
Check back here again later this week for more