Chord Basics, Pt. III – Reading Chord Diagrams

Last month I discussed using one finger chords and quarter note strums as a simple way of introducing chords to students. However, before moving on to more complex chords (using two or more fingers) it is important for students to understand how to read a chord diagram. Moreover, it may be prudent to introduce to the idea of reading chord diagrams prior to learning one finger chords. 

Next month I’ll continue with “Chord Basics” and delve into having students playing two finger chords.

Chord Basics, Pt. II – Simple Strumming

Last month I talked about using the one finger open chords G7 and G as a good starting point for introducing chords to guitar newbies. But, what is a good way to approach strumming those chords? This is a great point to introduce your student to music notation - using rhythmic notation is a great visual aid for students to help them understand what they are physically doing.

Start with quarter notes have the student count in groups of four (1234, 1234); play through each chord individually by looping a one measure rhythm and counting out loud to help keep their timing smooth. 

Once students are comfortable playing each chord, have them switch chords every four beats. Allow the player to take as much time to switch at first without a strict rhythm and once they can switch chords smoothly with a problem then enforce a stricter rhythm.

Next month the topic of“Chord Basics” will continue by outlining how to read chord diagrams.

Chord Basics, Pt. I

I’ve seen a good number of students get discouraged because of the way they are introduced to chords. For whatever reason, when learning chords many teachers start their students off with open position three-finger chords such as the “classic” E, A or D. It may be a bit much for those still developing finger independence to utilize three-finger chords, so I prefer to have students use one-finger open chords. 

The first open chords that I introduce to students to are the one-finger G7 and G. Although technically called G7/D and G/D, those new to the guitar are on a “need to know” basis and understanding chord inversions when you can’t play a chord is a bit much to ask.

Over the next few posts I’ll delve into strumming these chords and the mechanics of strumming.