Every Possible Strumming Pattern Explained in 8 Minutes

TLDR;

In this video, Kevin Nickens discusses an efficient way to learn guitar strumming patterns, focusing on all 256 possible strumming patterns. He emphasizes understanding basic concepts like time signatures and the mechanics of strumming that are crucial for developing rhythm skills.

• Learning strumming patterns through song examples is slow and can create gaps in knowledge.
• The fundamental patterns include down strums (quarter notes) and down-up strums (eighth notes).
• Advanced understanding involves recognizing variations of these basic patterns, totaling 256 options, and thinking about strumming in terms of counting beats.

Introduction to Strumming Patterns [0:00]

Kevin starts by reflecting on how most people learn strumming patterns inefficiently, often by picking them up from songs without a comprehensive understanding. He introduces the idea that knowing all 256 possible strumming patterns can help learners become more proficient quickly and without gaps in their knowledge. The goal is to establish a solid foundation before moving on to more complex strumming techniques.

Understanding Time Signatures [0:28]

He explains the fundamental strumming pattern as down-down-down-down, with a G chord provided as an example. Kevin highlights that many beginners struggle to grasp this pattern, which is essential for a solid grasp of rhythm. He introduces the concept of time signatures, particularly focusing on the common 4/4 time signature, which divides music into four beats.

Quarter Notes Explained [1:20]

The video goes on to define quarter notes as musical events occurring within a measure of 4/4 time. Kevin reinforces that counting these as "1, 2, 3, 4" is crucial for developing a sense of rhythm. He stresses that many players lack this foundational understanding, which can be detrimental to their playing skills.

Eighth Notes and Strumming Faster [2:18]

Next, Kevin introduces the second essential strumming pattern, down-up down-up, which relates to eighth notes. He discusses how these eighth notes derive from quarter notes by splitting them in half. To apply this to strumming, he suggests the key is to maintain a constant motion of the hand while inserting the up strums where necessary.

Counting Eighth Notes [3:32]

For counting eighth notes, rather than counting to eight, players should count to four with an added "and" for each half beat: "1 and 2 and 3 and 4." This method helps learners understand how to strum in a consistent rhythm while still focusing on the individual pattern.

Creating Variations of Strumming Patterns [4:09]

Kevin explains that the remaining 254 strumming patterns are variations of the basic quarter and eighth notes. These variations are achieved by removing certain strums from the primary down-up pattern. Keeping the hand in motion ensures that the player maintains rhythm, as they only need to decide when to strike the strings.

The Importance of Rhythm [5:41]

He emphasizes that a key aspect of playing guitar is to think of strumming patterns numerically rather than strictly in terms of downs and ups. By associating numbers with down strums and the "ands" with up strums, players can easily recognize and replicate strumming patterns they hear.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways [7:25]

In conclusion, Kevin summarizes the most important strumming patterns — the down-down-down-down (quarter notes), down-up down-up (eighth notes), and the numerous variations derived from these basics. He encourages players to translate rhythm into strumming patterns through this counting method for better accuracy and rhythm in their music.