Lesson 3 - Chord Sequences
Last Updated: 16th April, 2009
In the previous two lessons, we looked at chords A major, C major, D major, E major and G major. To continue with this lesson, you need to know these chords.
Its worth refering back to it every now and again to jog your memory.
And Remember, take the lessons at your own speed, there is no rush, good luck!
Whats involved in this lesson
Using chords A major, D major and E major I have put together a 4 bar chord sequence (in this instance 1 bar simply means 4 strums). The idea of this exercise is that you get use to changing between these chords fluently.
Contents:Timing
Chord Sequence 1
Chord Sequence 2
Chord Sequence 3
Summary
Timing
4/4 is placed at the beginning of the chord sequence to indicate the time signature. More will be explained about time signatures at a later point, but for now, take for granted that you should play 4 strums EVENLY spaced out for each chord. There is one chord per bar.
Start slow and gradually speed up, you should find this more effective. Also, try tapping your foot with every strum; this may help you stay in time. You could even count with the strums, so you know where you are; (A)1.. 2.. 3.. 4.. (D)1.. 2.. 3.. 4.. etc..
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Chord Sequence 1
4/4 || A | D | E | A ||
If your starting to get the hang of it, try the chord sequences using chords G major, C major and D major.
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Chord Sequence 2
4/4 || G | C | D | G ||
Keep practicing untill you start to become fluent in changing.
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Chord Sequence 3
This next chord sequence is a bit more challenging. You may notice that the last bar of the sequence contains two chords; G and D. For this you simply strum each chord twice - half a bar each.
4/4 || C | D | G | G D ||
So for the last two bars you would count (G)1.. 2.. 3.. 4.. (G)1.. 2.. (D)3.. 4.. etc..
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So, to summarise:
- Play through the chord sequences, practise them at a slow tempo (speed) and try to bring the temp up as you become confident.
- If you hear dead notes, remember the techniques from the first two lessons, these will help you.
When you feel you have played these chords till your heart's content and you're happy with your progress, take a look at lesson 4.
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