Cowboy Chord Songs, pt. III – New Rhythms

In the two previous posts I have discussed Cowboy/Open Chord songs and my approach to teaching them. Last month I spoke about applying whole note rhythms in order to allow the student ample time to change from chord to chord. Moreover, whole note rhythms would help the student establish a longer sense of pulse. 

This month the student will be applying half note rhythms to quicken their strumming pattern. Once again students will using only down strokes as indicated by the arrows on beats 1 and 3, as well as continuing to work with a metronome to ensure rhythms are played in proper time. 

Next month I’ll continue on the topic of how to teach Cowboy Chord songs.

Jennifer Batten Interview

Here's the latest article I co-authored for TEMPO magazine, an interview with Jennifer Batten; former axe slinger for Michael Jackson and member of Jeff Beck's band. I had the good fortune of attending her seminar Self Empowerment for the Modern Musician this past summer at Sam Ash Music. Ms. Batten had some wonderful information which she imparted to those in attendance and was kind enough to let us interview her for this article.. enjoy!

Cowboy Chord Songs, pt. II – Adding the Rhythm

Last month I posted about Cowboy/Open Chord songs and forming chord shapes to help smooth transitions. As an example, I chose the song Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door which uses only four chords: G, D, Am, C.

In this second installment students will begin strumming the chords in whole note rhythms/every four beats keeping the beat as slow as needed in order to switch chords “in-time”. This may be a good opportunity to introduce playing with a metronome so students become accustomed to playing with an established beat. Additionally, strumming should be limited to simple down strokes (as depicted by the arrows in the diagram below). 

By using whole note rhythms the player has plenty of time to think about the next chord change and transition to it in time. Furthermore, players will be forced to count, get a sense of where the downbeat is and feel a longer "phrase". 

Next month I’ll continue on the topic of how to teach Cowboy/Open Chord songs - til' then.