So im having some trouble getting my ring finger to bend enough to properly bar 3 notes while allowing the high e string to play. Is this a matter of practice or are some people just unable to fully bar this?
Im trying as much as I can but doesnt seem like my finger wants to bend that much...
Keep going! I reccomend pressing more in the middle of the index finger than in the top.
I don't really understand if you are trying to play an A shape bar chord with the root in the base (A string)the major triad inversion on strings D G B and the fifth on the high E string, or are you trying to play a minor triad as a bar on the G B and high E string? can you give an example please?
since I assume it's the first one, it can be quite tricky and takes some time to get used to. but the high e string is actually omitted quite often if it is not essential in your phrasing. the 5th is doubled in this chord voicing anyway since it is already played in the barred major triad inversion. I would only use it if you are trying to emphasize the sound of the 5th on the high E to get a certain colour.
Not so much using the root (though it could be done), but say the same shape as a barred B chord:
- index finger barring on the A string - E string 2nd fret
- ring finger barring 4th fret D, G, B strings
I can see Tomo is able to bend his ring finger for the bar to allow the high E string to ring out. Is it doable through practice? Will my ring finger join become more flexible over time or am I limited in this aspect?
It just takes time. I had a lot of trouble with this at first too and now its the easiest barre chord for me to go to
One option: try to reinforce your ring finger, by pressing down on it with your fourth finger. Another option: mute the first string with the side of your ring finger, and you will still be playing the same chord.