The term root refers to the note which gives the chord its name. For example, A is the root of A7, and E is the root of Em.

You have learned three types of chords, built on еach of the seven roots, That's our twenty-one chords. Learn and memorize where the root is located on each chord shape. Most of the time, the root is the lowest note (also known as the „bass note“). You should be able to clearly pluck the root first, and then follow that with full strumming. The coordination should feel comfortable at many different tempos. Remember to vary your tempos and your strums.

The root/chord type of strum is written like this:

This looks easy, but the ability to execute the bass note cleanly at a variety of tempos and with all chords shapes will only come with repeated practice and a strong emphasis on time.

Add this type of strumming technique to your repertoire and it will improve your overall sense of time, bass motion, and harmony.

In each of the chords studied so far, the root is the lowest note. Since the location of the root is different for each chord, here's a reference sheet of all the chords studied, with the roots. Study this figure until all chord shapes find root locations are learned. Then write out all the shapes again from memory.

The twenty one chord with lowest root identified:

At this time, the strumming hand (the right hand far most of us) should be discussed. It is very important to work on exercises that develop the dexterity in this hand and promote a strong, confident sense of time. These progressions are meant lo be practiced on a daily basis to obtain the desired ability. Here are some things to remember:

• Dynamics (loud and soft) should always be a part of your practice. • Repetition is the only way to develop relaxed coordination. • Tempo should be varied between progressions from very slow to as fast as possible! Don't stay at the same tempo for the whole practice session! • Rhythms from strumming and fingerpicking car be staccato (short) or legato (long).