In this video
8th notes- splitting a bar into 8
This is how a single 8th note looks alone. This is not seen often seen in the early stages but stay with me…
This is a pair of 8th strums. These add up to 1 beat and are joined at the top- the idea is it makes it easier to read.
If we do this for every strum in a bar, we split a bar into 8 strums, hence the name ‘8th strumming.
Strumming Pattern 2 - 8th Strumming
Here, you simply play twice as many twice as fast. However, the count MUST be ’1 + 2 + 3 + 4 +’ otherwise your chords will be to the wrong count.
Interactive TAB
Set tempo to 80bpm (start slower if you need to), hit 'Loop', and jam along!
On mobile, double tap TAB to loop and click the 'cog' symbol to set bpm.
It really helps if you develop the habit of tapping your foot whenever you listen to any music. This will help you feel a beat naturally, rather than having to count it. You should also work towards tapping your foot on the beat with ALL strumming patterns you learn. This means you will internalise the rhythm and make playing in time natural and easy! Tap your foot on the beat while playing either of the strumming patterns at this level, or any that you know. This is particularly beneficial along to a metronome or drumbeat or by playing along to the song itself.
Song examples with this strumming pattern;
Course Outline
Strumming Course