Jun 9 • General discussion
Beginner Questions - Why Are Chords Written Above The Music If We Don't Play Them?
One thing I've realised from talking to members is that if one person is confused about something, there's a good chance several other people are wondering the same thing.
So I'm starting a new series called Beginner Questions where I'll answer questions from members. Nothing is too basic. In fact, the "simple" questions are often the most important ones.
If you've ever been confused about something, leave a comment below and I'll try to answer it in a future post.
Today's question came from a member working through my beginner version of The Godfather:
"Why are there chord names written above the music when we don't actually play those chords?"
Great question.
The standard in music notation is to include the chords being played in the song, even if your particular part doesn't use those chord shapes.
Think about a band with a rhythm guitarist and a lead guitarist.
The rhythm guitarist plays the chords, while the lead guitarist plays melodies or solos. Even on the lead guitarist's music, you'll often see the chord names written above the notes. This helps them understand how their part fits together with the harmony of the song.
That's exactly what's happening in the Godfather arrangement.
The chord names are there to show you the harmony behind the melody, but you don't need to play those chord shapes. You're simply following the tab.
Fingerstyle guitar can make this a little confusing because sometimes we play full chords, sometimes partial chords, and sometimes just single melody notes.
At beginner level, the best approach is simple:
Follow the tab, play the notes you see, and don't worry too much about the chord names above the music.
As you progress, those chord symbols will start to make more sense and you'll begin to see how melodies and chords fit together.
Now it's your turn...
What beginner guitar question would you like me to answer next? Leave it in the comments below.
3
13 comments
Beginner Questions - Why Are Chords Written Above The Music If We Don't Play Them?
powered by
skool.com/fingerstyle-tab-club-8917
🎶 A fingerstyle guitar club for people who love to play classic songs on acoustic guitar.
Suggested communities
Powered by