Strumming

[Admin]

On another forum (AGF), a question was raised about how to learn proper strumming technique. My first thought was that this is simple, you just strum with your picking hand to the beat of the music, letting your fretting hand make the proper chords at the proper time...

Simple, right?

When you really think about it, it's easier said than done. Not only do you need to hit the right strings, probably "all of them", but you need to be aware of the time signature - i.e. 4/4, 3/4, etc. That will define the strumming pattern - eg down/up; down/up OR Down, Down, Up or "Bass, All, All"...

See, not as easy as one would believe is it.

How did you learn? By using a metronome, following along on recordings, playing with others.

I learned by playing with others more than any other way!

[Admin]

Here's a fair to middlin' lesson on bluegrass strummin'

www.ultimate-guitar.com/lessons/music_styles/basic_bluegrass_guitar.html?no_takeover

[steve]

I don't remember how I learned to strum but expect I just played along to certain things. It is an often overlooked aspect of playing though. I've noticed how some people have a very wooden or stilted way of playing. I go for smooth consistent and rhythmic playing.