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Guitar Lesson: Learning to Strum
Even though there is no guarantee of becoming a rock star learning to play the guitar takes time. Harnessing skill takes lots of practice.
Starting to strum the guitar can be done in two ways. One way is by using fingers the other is by using a pick.
Finding a place where you will not be interrupted is the first step in practicing. In order to play well you should position the guitar correctly. Right handed people put it over the right knee and left handed people over the left knee.
When strumming there are rules involved. Only four out of five fingers are used. From time to time the thumb touches and adjusts to the three brass strings. The three treble strings are handled by the index, middle and ring fingers. The shortest finger is the pinkie and is not conducive to guitar playing so it is not used.
Put the right hand over the body of the guitar to start. Low E is the lowest string and the one thumb should be touching.
The index finger can go to the third fret at the top or the high E string with the left hand easily touching the easy G chord.
Adjustments made to the fingers can be made to hear the stroke of the fourth string at different sounds and intervals while the thumb strokes it.
A pick should be used in the beginning if someone is not comfortable letting the fingers work. Since a guitar has steel strings some say this is the easiest way to learn. In time you will get the feel of playing the guitar by holding the pick with the thumb and ring finger and practicing at different intervals.
Learning how to play the guitar is done best through strumming. A song book may be used or it can be used by reading chords and learning with friends.
It is suggested to let music play in the background when ready to go from drills to song playing.
Some of the most skilled guitarists use strumming to warm up before a practice session or a show. The basics are the place to start and everyone has to have a place to start.
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