Playing a Bdim7 Chord on the Guitar: Techniques and Variations

Introduction to Bdim7 Chord

The Bdim7 chord is a fascinating addition to any guitarist's repertoire. It adds a distinctive, melancholic tone to your music, making it a versatile choice for many musical styles, from jazz to rock. This mode of the Bdim7 chord is often used as a substitute for the Bdim chord due to its versatile and nuanced sound.

Basic Bdim7 Fingering

The Bdim7 chord can be played in a few different ways, but one of the easiest and most versatile fingerings is:

Fretting pattern: 2-3-2-4-2-2 String 1 (high E): Bar the second fret String 2 (B): Fret the third fret String 3 (G): Fret the fourth fret String 4 (D): Fret the fifth fret String 5 (A): Skip it, it's not played String 6 (low E): Skip it, it's not played

Remember, the Bdim7 chord is typically used with the 5th and 6th strings muted or avoided unless a specific alternate pattern is called for in the music you're playing.

Variations of Bdim7 Chord

Variant 1: Quick and Dirty Bm7

For those seeking a simpler and quicker version, you might use the Bdim7 chord to mimic a quick and dirty Bm7 chord. This can be achieved by:

Fretting pattern: Bar the seventh fret Strings played: Four highest strings (E, B, G, D)

This version is often used for adding color to a song without going into a full-fledged Bdim7 or Bm7 chord pattern.

Variant 2: Full Bdim7 with All Six Strings

For a more robust sound, you can play the Bdim7 using all six strings, which sounds rich and deep:

Fretting pattern: 2-3-2-4-3-2 String 1 (high E): Bar the second fret String 2 (B): Fret the third fret String 3 (G): Fret the fourth fret String 4 (D): Fret the fifth fret String 5 (A): Fret the seventh fret String 6 (low E): Skipped in the basic pattern, but here, the 7th fret is fretted

This full version is ideal for a more intense or dramatic playing style and requires a bit more dexterity.

Conclusion

The versatility of the Bdim7 chord makes it a valuable tool for any guitarist. Whether you play it with a quick bar or go for a fuller sound, this chord adds a distinctive flavor to your music. As you experiment with different techniques and variations, you’ll find that the Bdim7 is a rich and interesting addition to your repertoire, enhancing the emotional and harmonic range of your music.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know which Bdim7 fingering to use?

This depends on the song and the overall sound you want to achieve. Start with the easier, more versatile pattern, and then explore different variations as you get more comfortable with the chord.

Q: Can the Bdim7 chord be used interchangeably with other chords?

Yes, the Bdim7 chord can often be used as a substitute for Bdim or even Bm7, providing a richer and more complex sound. Experiment with both in your music and see which one works best.

Q: What other chords are related to Bdim7?

Chords related to the Bdim7 chord include:

Bdim (B Diminished) Bm7 (B Minor 7) Db7 (Diminished 7)

Incorporating these into your playing can help you explore the different emotional and tonal variations that each one brings to your music.