What are minor chords? When should you strum up?

You have so many questions, don't you?

But I hope your fingers aren't hurting too bad! If you've just started with your guitar lessons and your fingers are sore, don't worry - it's part of the process. The finger pain should start to lessen in the next few weeks! You'll forget all about it with the news ahead. :)

Module 3 of my Beginner Guitar Course is one of my favorites! Here, we'll learn about minor chords - some say they sound pretty sad. We won't be getting too deep into theory, but check out the JustinGuitar Practical Music Theory Course if you're into it.

Let's take a look at what else is on today's menu.

What You'll Learn

We'll start by learning to play Am and Em and get a taste of the theory behind minor chords. We'll then get into up strums and backbeats! By the end of this module, you'll know when you should strum up and when you should strum down on the guitar.

💡Understanding up strums is a light-bulb moment! Make the most out of it. :)

Module 3 also answers all your capo questions! We'll dig into that weird guitar accessory and understand exactly when you should use a guitar capo. You'll also get why they're not only for beginners. ;)

And then, a super reward: we'll learn how to play the classic riff Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes. You can play it using only one finger, and it's a fantastic beginner guitar exercise!

Excited? You should be!

By the end of these lessons, you'll be comfortable playing the 5 essential open chords. That's big! But before we get started, here are a few reminders. :)

Accuracy Over Speed

With all these new techniques to learn, I know it's tempting to rush over things as fast as possible! Learning guitar is hard; it requires practice and patience, and everyone learns at a different rate! Take your time and focus on perfecting the skills you struggle to play. It'll make you a much better guitarist later on! :)

💡 Make sure you set up a balanced practice routine if you haven't already. Use My Practice Assistant for free and stay focused on the essential.

Playing Guitar is Awesome!

Keep your guitar journey as enjoyable as possible. Don't worry if you can't do things straight away - don't be too hard on yourself, and enjoy the process.

Focus, but let loose. You should feel comfortable and relaxed when you're with your guitar. The more pleasure you get from your practice sessions, the more likely you'll stick with learning guitar. And I promise: playing guitar is awesome! So at the end of your sessions, you should feel good.

I'm here to guide you throughout this guitar journey, but you're doing the work! Be proud of everything you've learned so far.

I'm proud of you. :)

Ready for the next step? Let's learn some Minor Chords. I can't wait to hear if you find minor chords sound sad!