root note

Hello jcellini - basically, the root note of a chord is the same as the chord's name.

For instance, the root note of a 'C' chord is C.  The root note of a 'Cm' chord is also C.

Perhaps I misunderstood your question?  If this doesn't help, please reply with more specifics.  James

Always pluck the root note first, with your thumb. On a G chord for exmple the root is G. the G is played on the low E string stopped at the 3rd fret (E + 3 semitones(frets) = G).

For a G chord I'll normally play alternating bass notes with my thumb starting with G as above and D, using the open D string.

For a C chord I play the C root note with my thumb on the A string, stopped at the 3rd fret = C, alternated with the E you get by stopping the D string on the 2nd fret - (Normal C chord shape.)

For a D start with the open D string and alternate with the open A

For A start with the open A string and alternate with the E you get by stopping the D string on the 2nd fret.

For E and F and all barre chords of that shape I do the same thing with my thumb as I do for G.

For all B and all Barre chords of that shape I do the same as I do for an A.

I think that covers it. sorry if I've gone into too much detail or if you don't agree but you did ask <img src="images/smiley_icons/icon_wink.gif" border=0 alt="Wink">