What you’ll learn
- Anticipate the next chord.
- Use pivot fingers where possible.
- Change on the beat while keeping the strumming hand moving.
Before you practice
Plan the change before releasing the current shape. Notice which fingers are already near the next position and move your hand as a unit.
A pivot finger stays on or near the same note across two chords. It reduces movement and guides the hand into the next shape.
Keep strumming simple at first. One strum per bar with timely changes is a good foundation for more complex patterns.
Lesson exercise
- Make 30 changes between two chords without a rhythm.
- Play four beats per chord at 60 BPM.
- Switch to two beats per chord after eight clean cycles.