D-shape Minor Chord

The core D minor shape

The D minor shape is the D major shape with the third lowered by one fret on the first string. Compared to the D major shape, it's refreshingly comfortable to play, typically gripped as xx1342.

As with the major version, the root is on the fourth string (and the second string), and the first finger leans back to keep the fifth string quiet.

Study and practice

Learn the chord grips

Master the D-shape minor chord using the exercises described in How to Master New Chord Grips.

Play minor primary chords

The minor primary chords (i-iv-v) are the same as the relative major secondary chords (vi-ii-iii).

Alternate between major and minor

Practice switching between the D-shape major and minor chords, listening for the third dropping back a fret on the first string.

Play the minor pentatonic over the chord

See the D-shape minor pentatonic lesson for more about playing this scale over the D-shape minor chord.