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 example.
Strumming
When playing chords lasting for whole, half or quarter notes, downward strums are used. However, when strumming eighth notes, it is common to use alternate strumming, which is similar to alternate picking.
All the notes on the beat (the number part of the count) are downstrums, while the notes between the beats (the and (+) part of the count) are upstrums. The following exercise uses alternate strumming in the final bar. Remember to keep your wrist relaxed regardless of which direction you are strumming.
