First strumming lesson

First I'd like to show an example of what we will learn:

Ok great, you liked it!

What is strumming?

A strum is the act of brushing one's fingers over, or strumming, the strings. A strumming pattern is a preset pattern used by a rhythm guitar. So, learn strumming and you can play rhythm guitar!

Strumming pattern

A strumming pattern is often displayed as follows:

This pattern sounds like this:

Explanation

Every ^ and v indicate a strum. ^ is an upwards strum, while v is an downwards strum. In this example 8th notes are played (after these 8 strums, the pattern repeats). On every 8th note a strum is played. Normally some places are left blank, so you get a more exiting pattern.

How to strum?

It can be done in several ways:

• With a plectrum; hold the plectrum between your index finger and thumb, and hit the strings
• With your nails; downwards with my index finger nail, upwards with my thumbnail

In the sample recording I did it with my nails. It sounds a little bit softer and there is more control.

Example

An example pattern:

Slow:

Full speed:

Apply it to an Am chord (slow):

Apply it to an Am chord (full speed):

Or, you can apply it to any chord changes, like Am C D F Am C E E!