[Lesson] How to Learn Chords: Simplified
When you’re learning how to play chords, it can be a bit frustrating. You follow the chord chart, put your fingers in the correct spots, press down, and clunk! Half the strings are dead, the ones that manage to vibrate just sort of rattle. Terrible!
“Just keep playing them over and over until they sound better”. I guess that could happen eventually. But we don’t have that kind of time.
We need a simple and effective way to practice this so you can play some music.
Try this method out if you’re ready to play chords correctly.
P.S. If you’re more of a visual learner, I made a diagram of this process at the bottom of the post.
The Process:
Step 1: Play one string at a time. Does the note ring out?
Yes: Move to the next string and repeat the step.
No: Are you applying enough pressure to the string? and/or Is there a finger in the way of the string?
Chances are it’s one of these two options.
Once the problem is fixed, move to the next string and repeat Step 1 until you’re done.
Okay, now you’ve finished. Do all the appropriate notes ring out? Yes? Great! Time for Step 2.
Step 2: Strum!
Notes:
Make sure to maintain all the adjustments you made. It’s easy to forget one after fixing another.
Take the time to connect to your hands. What does it feel like to play the chord correctly?
That’s it! Doesn’t need to be complicated. Some chords will be easier to play than others, so apply this concept when you need it.
I hope this was helpful and simplified some things for you. Now go practice! Still confused or have questions about something else? I’m available for private lessons. Email me at briangalavizmusic@gmail.com and let’s play some music!
Brian Galaviz briangalavizmusic@gmail.com briangalavizmusic.com
