Hi Mike,

I really enjoy the whole GT site and in particular your detailed song lessons, thank you.

My question is technique-related, please.

I can flatten any of the fingers in my left hand, easily bending the finger back at the second knuckle so that I can bar a first position A chord and still expose the top E string if required.

Except that try as I may, I cannot do this like you do with your pinky finger. My pinky flattens at the third knuckle joint, i.e. at the hand. Try as I may, I cannot perfect this and consequently have a frequently imperfectly sounding chord and no control over exposing top E or not.

What is the secret please? Is it just a matter of developing pinky strength? What exercises, techniques or scales can I do to help obtain this?

Many thanks again.

David Bower