Getting Started With...Rhythm Guitar

Try some rhythm basics with a lesson on strumming and staying in time

“I’ve learnt a few chords since I started playing the guitar but I haven’t really got to grips with rhythm. How should I get started?”

The most common rhythm guitar technique involves using a down-up strumming movement. You’ll need a pick (aka plectrum) to strum the strings with and you’ll need to aim for an even, steady motion. Listen to Kurt Cobain’s E-G progression on Nirvana’s About A Girl or Glenn Frey’s acoustic rhythm in Take It Easy by the Eagles for some inspiration.

“I understand playing with down strokes and upstrokes. It tends to be the timing that I struggle with most.”