What is passing chords guitar?

Passing chords in guitar are chords that are played briefly between two main chords to create a more interesting harmonic progression. They can be used to make transitions between chords more seamless, add tension or release, create a sense of movement, or simply to add variety to a song.

Passing chords may be diatonic, meaning they belong to the same key as the main chords, or chromatic, meaning they are borrowed from another key, and may or may not resolve into the following chord.

Some common passing chords in guitar include the ii and vi chords in a major key, the iii and vii chords in a minor key, the tritone substitution, and the diminished chord. Passing chords can be played in various inversions, and their rhythm and timing can be adjusted to fit the desired effect.

Learning to use passing chords in guitar playing can greatly enhance one's harmonic vocabulary and creativity, and can make songs sound more sophisticated and interesting. It requires a good understanding of music theory, knowledge of different chord voicings and their relationships, and practice in incorporating them effectively into a song.