I understand that it is best that the strumming hand is constantly moving so as to help with timing issues, but what if a chord is held for 1 bar or more? Should it keep moving then? Also, should right hand motion be identical in movement constantly, eg. down and up with the same speed and distance covered, or can it vary? Or is it a matter of personal taste?
Good question. To the chord being held for one bar. How many lyric words happen in that bar? How many strums will be needed? Normally one per lyric word. Pull up some lead sheet music, one that has the treble clef, lyrics and chord name shown, I think you will find that each lyric word will get a treble clef note. So -- try this. Happy gets two notes, birthday gets two notes, then to and you get one note each. Let's hitch hike on that - one strum per lyric word. Are the strums up or down or a combination of both? Depends. Strumming is a feel thing. Most rhythm guitarists have three or four strum patterns and they mix and match them to the song. Using what is needed for this specific song. Yes try and keep the same pattern going throughout the song. The vocalist will thank you.Originally Posted by Simonon
Start with down strums, one per lyric word. You will feel the need for an up strum when it is needed. Yes the up strum will probably only catch a couple of strings, that's all that is needed.
Google can find all kinds of strum patterns for you. Good luck. http://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid...w.r_qf.,cf.osb
Last edited by Malcolm; 04-22-2012 at 11:12 PM.
If you find keeping your RH moving during a chord held for an entire bar helps you stay in time, go for it...I wouldn't overthink it in terms of worrying about hand speed, distance, etc., the important thing is just to keep "feeling" the beat.
Ok, thanks, that was very helpful.
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