strum n : sound of strumming; "the strum of a guitar" v : sound the strings of (a string instrument); "strum a guitar" [syn: thrum] [also: strumming, strummed]strumming See strum

A strumm is the act of brushing one's fingers over, or strumming, the strings of a string instrument such as a guitar.

A strumming pattern is a preset pattern used by a rhythm guitar. Compare with pattern picking, strumming patterns may be indicated through notation, tablature, up and down arrows, or slashes. For example, a pattern in common time or 4/4 consisting of alternating down and up eight note strokes may be written:

/\/\/\/\

The pattern most typical of rock and related styles would be written:

/ /\ \/\

Patterns may alternate or vary through one song.

Examples of primary strumming patterns in songs (Dix, 1993, p.19-26):

• single down strum: / / / /
  • Elvis' "Burning Love"
• down-up: /\/\/\/\
  • Billy Ray Cyrus' "Achy Breaky Heart"
  • Kathy Mattea's "What Could Have Been"
• boom-chicka: / /\/ /\
  • Merle Haggard's "Silver Wings"

Source

External links

• Strumming Techniques for Guitar (Videos)
  • Guitar Basics: Strumming Technique
  • Strumming Technique Strumming Technique
  • Basic strumming techniques
  • Acoustic Guitar Lesson
  • Strumming Patterns Editor Online
  • Strumming Patterns For Beginners