Rhythm Notation
As well as traditional music notation and tablature, guitar music sometimes uses rhythm notation. This is similar to traditional notation, except that the notes have a diagonal line instead of a notehead.
This tells you that instead of playing individual notes you will be strumming chords. The names of the chords to be played are written above the notation, as shown in the following diagram.
Quarter Note Rhythms
This is a quarter note. It lasts for one beat. There are four quarter notes in one bar of * time.
The following example contains a quarter note rhythm symbol on each beat of the bar. When rhythm notation is used, there are no strum symbols above the music. You simply play a down strum every time you see a quarter note symbol.
As mentioned in the introduction, it is important to use a metronome in order to develop a good time feel right from the start. Count along with the metronome, and tap your foot on each beat as you play.
