Learn Guitar Chords in 3 Easy Steps

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Step 1: Finding the Key
3. Step 2: Identifying Chord Road Map
4. Step 3: Listening and Locating Chords
5. Using Barre Chords for Movable Road Maps
6. Applying the Three-Step System to Songs
7. Non-Diatonic Chords and Part 2 of the Video
8. The Benefits of Playing by Ear
9. Conclusion

How to Find the Chords to Any Song by Ear

Have You ever marveled at those musicians who can listen to a song once and figure out the chords without the need for tabs or sheet music? You might think they must be musical geniuses, but in reality, anyone can develop this skill with a little practice. In this video, I will guide you through a simple three-step system to help you find the chords to almost any song. Let's get started!

Step 1: Finding the Key

Before we can find the chords to a song, we need to determine the key it is in. There are various methods to find the key, but one of the easiest ways is to use a major Scale Shape and move it around until it sounds right. The major scale is made up of seven notes, and all the chords in a particular key come from this scale. By playing the major scale shape and moving it up and down the fretboard, you can identify the position where every note sounds like it fits.

Step 2: Identifying Chord Road Map

Once we know the key of the song, we can use a chord road map to identify the chords that naturally occur in that key. The chord road map is a system of diatonic chords that correspond to each note in the major scale. For example, in the key of C major, the chords correspond to the notes C, D, E, F, G, A, and B. Understanding this road map allows us to quickly determine the major or minor chords associated with each note in the key.

Step 3: Listening and Locating Chords

Now that we know the key and have our chord road map, it's time to listen and locate the chords being played in the song. By using our ear, we can identify where the chords change and try out different chords from the key to see which ones fit. This step may require some trial and error at first, but with practice, you will become faster and more accurate in identifying the correct chords. It's important to remember that there are often multiple correct answers, as songs may incorporate variations or non-diatonic chords.

Using Barre Chords for Movable Road Maps

While open chords are convenient, using barre chords or power chords can provide a more movable road map that works in any key. By positioning barre chords along the fretboard, we can Create a consistent pattern where the chord shapes always Align with the corresponding note in the key. This makes it easier to play chords in different keys without having to adjust fingerings significantly.

Applying the Three-Step System to Songs

Let's Apply the three-step system to a couple of examples to solidify our understanding. By listening to the chord progression and following the steps, we can determine the key, identify the chords from the road map, and confirm which chords are being played in the song. Remember, the more you practice, the faster and more accurate you will become at finding chords by ear.

Non-Diatonic Chords and Part 2 of the Video

While we focused on diatonic chords in this video, it's essential to note that songs may include non-diatonic chords that deviate from the key's natural chords. These non-diatonic chords add tension and variety to the music. In a future part of this video, we will dive deeper into non-diatonic chords and how to navigate them.

The Benefits of Playing by Ear

Learning to play songs by ear has several advantages. It enhances your musicality, allowing you to develop a deeper understanding of song structures, chord progressions, and melodies. It also fosters creativity by enabling you to improvise and personalize songs. Playing by ear expands your musical repertoire and prepares you for Jam Sessions or performing live. So, don't rely solely on tabs and sheet music; challenge yourself to develop this invaluable skill.

Conclusion

Finding the chords to any song by ear may seem daunting at first, but with the three-step system outlined in this video, you can train your ears to identify chords accurately. Start by finding the key, understand the chord road map, and practice listening and locating the chords in songs. The more you practice, the better you'll become, and soon you'll be able to hear a song and play along without the need for tabs or sheet music. So, grab your guitar and start exploring the world of playing by ear!

Highlights

• Discover a simple three-step system to find the chords to almost any song by ear.
• Learn how to find the key of a song using a major scale shape and your ears.
• Understand the chord road map that corresponds to each note in the major scale.
• Practice listening and locating the chords being played in a song.
• Utilize movable road maps with barre chords for easy chord transitions in different keys.
• Apply the three-step system to real song examples and enhance your playing skills.
• Explore the realm of non-diatonic chords and their role in music.
• Unlock the benefits of playing by ear, including increased musicality and creativity.
• Break free from reliance on tabs and sheet music and become a more versatile musician.
• Develop your ear-training abilities and enhance your overall guitar playing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can anyone learn to find chords by ear, or is it only for musical geniuses? A: Anyone can develop the skill of finding chords by ear with practice and patience. It may take some time to train your ears, but it is a learnable skill that can benefit musicians of all levels.

Q: Do I need to know music theory to find chords by ear? A: While some knowledge of music theory can be helpful, it is not necessary to find chords by ear. By using your ears and following the three-step system outlined in this video, you can successfully identify chords without extensive music theory knowledge.

Q: What if I struggle to identify the key or chords by ear? A: Ear training takes time and practice, so don't be discouraged if you initially struggle. Start by listening to simple songs and gradually work your way up to more complex compositions. Consider using software or online resources that provide ear training exercises to further develop your skills.

Q: Can this three-step system be applied to any instrument, or is it specific to the guitar? A: The three-step system can be applied to any instrument. While the examples in this video focused on the guitar, the principles can be adapted to piano, bass, ukulele, or any other harmonic instrument.

Q: Are there any shortcuts to finding chords by ear? A: Developing your ability to find chords by ear requires practice and active listening. There are no magic shortcuts, but as you train your ears and become more familiar with chord progressions and musical patterns, the process will become quicker and more intuitive.

Q: Should I still use tabs and sheet music if I can find chords by ear? A: Tabs and sheet music are valuable resources for learning new songs and expanding your repertoire. However, relying solely on tabs and sheet music can limit your musicality and creativity. Finding chords by ear allows you to add your unique touch to songs and enhances your overall musicianship.

Q: How can finding chords by ear improve my playing skills? A: Finding chords by ear improves your playing skills by enhancing your musicality, developing your ear-training abilities, and fostering creativity. It enables you to play songs spontaneously, improvise, and understand the underlying musical structures. Ultimately, it helps you become a more versatile and well-rounded musician.