Core Concepts: Essentials of Strumming
Your strumming hand must master:
- String Positioning: Maintain consistent spacing
- Precision: Cleanly hit target strings each time
- Timing: Strictly align with beats without rushing
Demonstrated in 4/4 time (4 beats per measure, quarter note = 1 beat):
Pattern 1｜Basic Downstrokes
▸ Notation: ▼ ▼ ▼ ▼ (4 consecutive downstrums)
▸ Tip:
- Count aloud “1, 2, 3, 4” while strumming
- Return hand to ready position after each strum
Pattern 2｜Upstroke Focus
▸ Notation: ▲ ▲ ▲ ▲ (4 consecutive upstrums)
▸ Variation:
- Accent beats 2 & 4 (▲strong▲strong)
- Keep rhythm steady, only change dynamics
Pattern 3｜Alternating (Full/Partial Strings)
▸ Notation: ▼ ▲ ▼ ▲
▸ Pro Hack:
- Downstrum all 6 strings, upstrum only strings 3-6 (bass side)
- Pairs well with barre chords
Pattern 4｜Double-Time
▸ Notation: ▼▲ ▼▲ ▼▲ ▼▲ (down+up per beat)
▸ Mnemonic:
Say “1-and, 2-and, 3-and, 4-and” aloud
Pattern 5｜Rest Incorporation (Ghost Strum)
▸ Notation: ▼▲ ▼▲ －▲ ▼▲
▸ Key:
- Replace 3rd downstrum with “air strum” (motion continues but mute strings)
- Maintain hand momentum to create rhythmic gaps
✧ Pro Advice
- Sweet Spot: Strum between soundhole and bridge
- Next Step: Enroll in MOCA JADE’s “6-Week Pop Guitar Crash Course”!