Chord Changes

Switch between two open chords in time with the metronome, without stopping.

8 min

Start
60 BPM
Target
60 BPM
Last time
—

First time here, go for it!

FocusCurrent focus

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How to play it
Why this exercise

Most songs fall apart on the change, not on the chord itself. Practising just the switch, in time, gets your hand there on the beat so the song keeps moving.

  1. Pick two open chords you use in a song: for example E minor and C, or G and D.
  2. Strum the first chord once per click for 4 clicks, then switch to the second without losing the pulse.
  3. Lift your fingers together and land them together. Look for a finger that can stay put between the two chords.
  4. If you do not get there in time, lower the BPM. Arriving late means slow down, not stop.
  5. Once the change is clean, switch every 2 clicks, then on every click.
Today's tip

Start by switching every 4 clicks. Keep strumming even if the chord is not perfect yet.

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