Eighth Note Rhythm Patterns
Here are some eighth note rhythm patterns in * time. Any rhythm pattern can be used on any chord progression.
Practice the following eighth note patterns holding a E chord and then apply these patterns to the chord progressions in Lessons One and Two.
The following example contains a D minor chord and uses notes on the 4th string.
G Major Chord
G
To play the G chord, place the first, second and third fingers of your left hand as shown in the diagram. Strum all six strings.
Practice new chord changes using a basic rhythm pattern first. Once you are confident with the progression then use the eighth note rhythm pattern. You can apply any rhythm pattern to a chord progression. This chord progression uses eighth note rhythm pattern 1 (exercise 14).
Rhythm Pattern
This chord progression uses eighth note rhythm pattern 2 (exercise 15). When changing between D and A use your first finger as a pivot. Use your second finger as a pivot when changing between A and C chords.
Rhythm Pattern
This chord progression uses eighth note rhythm pattern 4 (exercise 17). Use your second finger as a pivot when changing between A and C chords.
Rhythm Pattern
E Seventh Chord
E7
To play the E7 chord, use the first and second fingers of your left hand as shown in the diagram, and strum all six strings. The E7 chord shape is just the E chord shape with the third finger lifted off.
The following chord progression contains an E7 chord and uses eighth note rhythm pattern 1 (exercise 14).
When changing between D and E7 use your first finger as a slide finger.
When changing between A and D use your first finger as a pivot.
Rhythm Pattern
A Seventh Chord
A7
To play the A7 chord, use the second and third fingers of your left hand as shown in the diagram, and strum all six strings. The A7 chord shape is just the A chord shape with the first finger lifted off.
This progression contains an A7 chord and uses eighth note rhythm pattern 8 (exercise 21).
When changing between D7 and G use your third finger as a slide finger.
Rhythm Pattern
