In this lesson you will be introduced to strumming, but first here are four more chords to learn. They are G Major, E minor, A minor and D minor. Notice the difference between Major and Minor. The Major chord has a strong stable sound whereas the Minor has a sadder more melancholy sound. It's worth noting that many songs have been written using just the chords from lessons 1 and 2.
   
G Major
E major chord window
   
A Minor
E major chord window
   
E Minor
E major chord window
Tip: Try this alternative E Minor fingering.  
E Minor
E major chord window
   
D Minor
E major chord window
     
This lesson has four strumming patterns for you to learn. The patterns will use all of the chords you have learnt up to this point. Take each pattern slowly, this will give you the chance to change between chords smoothly. Build up speed over time and remember - the more you practice the easier it becomes.

  This Arrow indicates a down stroke. To play a downstroke strum from the root note of the chord. The root note will be on the E, A or D string depending on what chord you are playing.
  This Arrow indicates an upstroke. To play an upstroke strum from the high E string (thinnest string).
  Place your right hand palm on the strings to stop the chord ringing.
   
Strum Pattern 1 Note - Play each pattern at least 2 times
Strum Pattern 2
Strum Pattern 3
Strum Pattern 4
 
Note - The minor chords have been abbreviated to min. Major chords can also be abbreviated, for example A Major could be abbreviated to A Maj or just A.
 

Tips
1. Remember to play the correct strings when strumming the chords.
2. Try your own combinations of chords and strumming.
 
Guitar Settings
Setting Up Your Guitar and Amp
These are the Marshall Rock-Kit guitar and amp settings used by us for the sound file recordings that accompany this lesson.
 

Amp Settings