Every song is built on chords. Whether you want to learn pop, rock, classical, jazz, or any genre of music, chords are the foundation of every song, piece, composition, etc. Master switching between the chords, and you could master any song. In this article, you will learn to quickly switch chords, which will enable you to play any song on guitar or piano you want with confidence.
For this article, we will focus on the chord progression C G Am F. You could play this with open chords, power chords, barre chords, inversion chords, or various other ways. If you do not know what these types of chords are, then google them. For example, you can google “C Open Chord” or “C power chord.”
The first step to switching chords is simply to make sure your fingers are in the right place, touching the right notes. Start on a C chord. Take as much time as necessary to get your fingers in the right place. Then move to a G chord. Again, take as much time as necessary. Repeat this step for the Am and F chords. At this stage, focus only to make sure your fingers are in the right place, nothing else.
Once you feel confident about the notes and can effortlessly find the right notes for each chord, it is time to focus on the rhythm. Turn on a metronome to 85 bpm and switch between C, G, Am F playing four beats of each chord. At this stage, focus only to make sure you play the song in rhythm, nothing else. Do not worry if you play the wrong notes. Do not correct yourself in the middle of switching between C, G, Am, & F. You can do this same exercise playing quarter, eighth, or 16th notes on each chord.
Playing with a metronome and committing to not stop or correct yourself will quickly trick your mind into playing in rhythm without hesitation. You will make the most progress when you determine what you will focus on, and then you play a passage without thinking or judging yourself.
Playing a musical instrument (singing, guitar, or piano) is meant to be effortless. Practice is also meant to be effortless and enjoyable.
To get your hands to move in time while switching chords, practice visualizing your instrument and visualize your fingers moving from chord to chord easily. This is best when practiced away from your instrument. You can even move you fingers and play air guitar or air piano to simulate the rhythm and chord changes while practicing. Despite what many think, practicing air guitar with the right focus can actually help you improve your guitar skills more than actually playing your guitar.
Chord switches are easiest when you move the least number of fingers and move each finger as little as possible. Rehearse where each finger will go when switching chords.
Here are the top six steps to switch chords on guitar or piano like a pro!
- Practice the Notes – Take your time. Make sure your fingers are in the right place.
- Practice the Rhythm – Play with a metronome
- Visualize – Rehearse the music and chord changes in your mind
With the right mindset, you can learn to play guitar and piano like a professional or even just like a confident hobbyist. You can live on fire and achieve whatever you want in music. The secret to unlock your musical dreams begins in your mind.
To learn more about how to sing, ply piano, or to play guitar, find a music teacher near you who specializes in teaching students to master this art. You will benefit greatly from guitar, piano, or voice lessons from a master instructor.
If you live near Troy, Michigan, go to www.jropro.com to receive a free assessment lesson at the J-RO School of Music. Make your musical dreams a reality!
About the author: Josh Ross is a professional musician and the founder of the J-RO School of Music in Troy, MI. For the past decade, he has empowered his students to reach their musical dreams and to experience incredible fulfillment through music. If you are interested in taking guitar lessons, piano lessons, or voice lessons in Troy, MI, then contact Josh at www.jropro.com for a FREE Assessment Lesson.
Josh Ross – Founder J-RO School of Music
Piano, Voice, & Guitar Lessons in Troy, MI
