Hi Bagpuss,

I know this probably isn't the best thread for this, but I have an idea that might help your A chord. I know of 3 ways to play an open A chord.

1. 1st finger on 4th string, 2nd finger on 3rd string, 3rd finger on 2nd string (all second fret of course)

This seemed to be the most common way when I was learning the A chord but I had trouble with it. My fingers naturally went to a different way:

2. 1st finger on 3rd string, 2nd finger on 4th string, 3rd finger on 2nd string. (feels much more natural to me but I still get funny looks sometimes from someone familiar with the other way)

And another way I often play it:

3. 1st finger bar on 4th, 3rd and 2nd strings (mute high E string) This method opens up lots of opportunities for melody notes. Something similar can be done with the D chord.

4. One last option - playing an A7 chord using only two fingers may make it easier. (i.e., play the open 3rd(G) string)

Maybe this will help

Jason.