How to Play “Falling Slowly” on Guitar Easy
If you’re a beginner guitarist looking to master the classic song “Falling Slowly” by The Swell Season, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll guide you through the basics of playing this beautiful tune on the guitar, making it easy for you to learn and enjoy. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some experience under your belt, follow these simple steps to play “Falling Slowly” on guitar with ease.
Understanding the Chords
The first step in learning “Falling Slowly” is to familiarize yourself with the chords. The song is primarily based on three chords: G, C, and D. These chords are common in many popular songs and are relatively easy to play. Here’s a quick rundown of how to form each chord:
– G chord: Place your first finger on the third fret of the sixth string, your second finger on the third fret of the fifth string, your third finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your fourth finger on the first fret of the third string. Your first finger should be curled to form a barre across the first three strings.
– C chord: Place your first finger on the third fret of the sixth string, your second finger on the third fret of the fifth string, your third finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your fourth finger on the first fret of the third string. Similar to the G chord, your first finger should be curled to form a barre.
– D chord: Place your first finger on the second fret of the sixth string, your second finger on the second fret of the fifth string, your third finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your fourth finger on the second fret of the third string. Your first finger should be curled to form a barre across the first three strings.
Strumming Pattern
Once you’ve mastered the chords, it’s time to focus on the strumming pattern. “Falling Slowly” follows a simple, rhythmic pattern that can be easily learned. Here’s how to play the strumming pattern:
– Start by playing the G chord, then strum the first four strings down in a downward motion.
– Move to the C chord, and strum the first four strings up in an upward motion.
– Play the D chord, and strum the first four strings down in a downward motion.
– Repeat this pattern throughout the song, making sure to maintain a consistent rhythm.
Practice and Tips
To become proficient at playing “Falling Slowly” on guitar, practice is key. Here are a few tips to help you along the way:
– Start by practicing each chord individually, focusing on proper finger placement and form.
– Once you’re comfortable with the chords, try playing them in sequence, gradually increasing your speed.
– Practice the strumming pattern slowly at first, then gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
– Record yourself playing the song to identify areas for improvement and track your progress over time.
– Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or online resources if you’re struggling with a particular aspect of the song.
Conclusion
Playing “Falling Slowly” on guitar is a rewarding experience, and with these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this beautiful tune. Remember to practice regularly, maintain proper form, and enjoy the process. Happy strumming!