Chord Symbols
The letters above the staff are chord symbols. Chords are groups of notes played by the rhythm guitarist or keyboard player. The three most common chord types are major, minor (m) and seventh (7) chords. Chords will be discussed in more detail later in the book.
In the following example there are four quarter notes in each bar. Hold each note for its full value and aim for a strong, even tone as you play.
Playing with the pick
If you are using a pick, play quarter notes with a downward pick motion as indicated by the a symbol.
Playing with the fingers
If you are playing the strings with your right hand fingers, anchor your thumb on the pickup and strike the A note with your index finger (i). As soon as it comes to rest on the lower string (4th string) pick the A note again, this time using your middle finger (m). Maintain this alternating movement between the two fingers. Make sure one of the two fingers is always resting on the 4th string while the other is picking the 3rd string and vice versa, i.e., use the rest stroke as discussed earlier. Always use this alternating finger style as it will give you more possibilities when changing between notes and strings. It is important to be equally comfortable starting with either the i finger or m finger. Practice each example starting with i and alternating, and then with m and alternating.
