Applying Rhythm to Chords

Whenever you're talking about strumming chords, you have to necessarily think of the guitar as a percussive instrument just as much as a harmonic one. Even a great progression can become boring without a driving, interesting rhythm. We have lots of tools at our disposal to create one. The sharp attack but lasting sustain make for quite a contrast, but can still be contrasted further with rests. Mutes and palm mutes further enhance the percussive nature of the instrument and increase our palette. This is all in addition to a wide dynamic range accessible by pick strength, as well as the different tone of downstrokes vs. upstrokes.

PreReqs

• C Major Chord
• F Major Chord
• G Major Chord
• E Minor, D Minor, and A Minor Chords

Technique

Even the most famous shred players tend to alter their technique when strumming chords.

Mutes and Rests

Mutes and rests become quite important to get a good rhythmic feel to strumming chords. Muted strums are very percussive, moreso than any other variety.

Accenting Backbeat or Raggae Feel

Rather