F Sharp

In this set of chords, we move the B shape (based on the A form) to the C# Major chord at the 4th fret, and then to the D#m (fret 6 - with flatted 3rd), & the F# shape (based on E Form) to the G#m (fret 4 - yet with a flat 3rd). The E#o is a decent fingering for thediminished chord.

There are 6 sharps in the key of F sharp (F#). The sharps are F#, G#, A#, B, C#, D#, E# (everything but the B). Note that the key of F has only 1 flat (B-flat) - this is the 'opposite' of the key of F# (what is sharped in F# is natural in F).

Remember the total amount of sharps & flats for keys with the same core letter name (half step away) always equals 7. In this instance, we have 6 sharps (in F#) + 1 flat (in F) = 7.

We could say that the key signature of F# is 2 naturals: B and F (E# is F), Just a note here to say that we can think about tone groupings (keys) in different ways than the bloated circle of 5ths. Of course, the key of F# is the same tone set as the key of G flat (Gb). Is it possible that just by naming this key something different, it could possibly change its color or mood?

Let's always look for relationships between guitar chords: similarities and opposites.

Example: the chord A minor is composed of the tones a, c, and e. If we want A# minor, sharp everything - a#, c#, e#. Same for D minor; D# minor is d#, f#, a#.

Another: G#m is g#, b, d#. Gm is g, b-flat, d. 'Opposites.'

• We first get all of the chords in our hands. We take our time; make the connections.
• We then play the chord scale ascending and descending. We play chords as we do scales [alphabetically]. We can use any beat count or motor hand technique.
• Next, we play progressions and/or songs that are in the key. We also keep in mind that the voicings shown for the key are but one way to play any particular type of chord. See the CAGED cluster for more options. Different styles favor certain voicings, and in a way are defined by the types that are used.
• As always, we write progressions. This process of arranging chords in our own order, and/or common sequences, is the genesis for writing our own songs. Start this process from the beginning.