Memorising a song on guitar

Who else out there is learning guitar?

Or another instrument?

I’ve been plodding along with the guitar on and off for years now.

More ‘on’ since covid lockdown - one thing I have to thank that experience for.

One of my main challenges though, has been in trying to memorise chords for a whole song.

Because playing guitar often has a bit to do with the desire to play a few songs around a camp fire or at a party…

So I’m here to help to help with this!

Here are my tips to more easily learn and remember chords to a song.

1. Choose ONE (and only one) SIMPLE song you would like to memorise.

For example, something with just 3 or 4 chords and a standard pattern (probably not music speak but hopefully you understand what I mean!)

I’m sure you would like to memorise a load of songs as quick as possible but starting with one and getting it down pat means you’ll have a very solid foundation to do this.

So trust me, choose and just stick with one to start.

2. Print out or have a hard copy of the song and chords.

Having the full visuals in front of you will help with your visual memory.

3. Practice the song with the page in front of you and bear in mind the following key point:

- LISTEN and ‘FEEL’ as you play more than you watch or read.

I.e. feel into the emotion or mood as you play each chord (e.g Am might sound like heartache…or whatever else it feels like to you.)

Or feel into how you feel playing it - positive emotions are obviously best so feeling proud and confident in yourself while you play it.

The reason for this is, a stronger emotional connection helps create a stronger memory.

You can also feel into the timing of the changes - when does it seem ‘right’ to make the change. Or feel how your body is or the movement of your fingers as you play the chords.

I know this is a lot about ‘feelings’ and it might seem a little strange but trust me on this one!

4. Visualise the chord shape in your mind as you play.

5. Say the chord out loud as you play.

6. Start to test yourself without the chords in front of you.

Remember mistakes mean learning!

Be kind to yourself and if you haven’t quite got it, firstly close your eyes and give yourself a decent chance to remember yourself and then continue on to refer to your print out if needed. It’s all good.

7. Making progress or got the song down? Definitely, CELEBRATE.

Give yourself a pat on the back as a minimum, or do a little dance.

8. Come back to the song over the next few days and keep it up!

You’ll be playing around that camp fire in no time.

Keen to chat more on this? That’s what I’m here for. Click the ‘book a chat’ button.