Regarding Rhythmic Notation

We will have a more formal lesson on reading in Module 3, but just know that the Whole, Half and Quarter notes have two different versions of notation on guitar: melodic and rhythmic. You'll notice both of these columns on your "Rhythms in Music" handout. Rhythmic notation is reserved for 'chords' or really anything that produces a sound by hitting.

I like to think of it as less precise compared to melodic notation and has some room for interpretation. Meaning it doesn't matter if you hit all the notes in the chord - just hit something.

Directions of Rhythm

For strumming directions, remember there are only two directions: down and up (for pick) OR open and close (for finger-style). Both mean the same thing. Module 2 and 3 will only focus on combinations of rhythms played with a down, or open, so don't get caught up on the idea too much because we will open this up heavily in Module 4.