How To Beat The Frustration Of Learning Guitar Chords For Beginners
While there are no real shortcuts, there are a few effective strategies that you can use to learn beginner guitar chords starting today.
Lets assume that you have a chart of chords and that you already have an understanding of how to play the guitar, read a diagram and place your fingers on the fretboard and strings properly. Your next step would not be to try to learn every chord that is on the chart overnight.
A better approach would be to start with only two to three easy to play guitar chords. These should preferably be within the same key or family. A key is a group of related chords or a "family" that musicians use when writing songs.
Many guitar instruction methods will start a student out using the key of A. Three chords from this family are "A" "D" and "E".
With these three chords a student can play countless easy guitar songs.
Take one chord at a time and learn the finger placement. Starting with the "A". Practice holding your fingers down on the chord and lifting them up and reposition them again many times. Do this as long as is comfortable for you. Don't worry about strumming at this point. This is called building "muscle memory".
Next try strumming. Strum all the strings that are to be played for that chord. You may hear muted or buzzing sounds from the strings. If this happens, keep your fingers placed on the proper strings and try playing each string one at a time, listening to hear that a solid sound is coming from each string. Try rocking your finger back and forth on each string until you get a clear sound.
Once you feel comfortable with your first chord = "A", try doing the same thing for the next one. Practice switching between chords in a similar fashion. Place your fingers for "A" and lift and reposition your fingers for "D", and back to "A". Keep repeating this many times. Next you can add "E" to the mix. Start with the A, to the D to the E and keep looping this pattern or progression.
Don't get frustrated if your not progressing as fast as you would like. With time and practice you will be strumming and be able to switch between chords easily.
How To Beat The Frustration Of Learning Guitar Chords For Beginners