What Is Strumming?

Strumming is a guitar technique where the pick (or fingers) runs through the strings in one swift motion. Ideal technique is to have the elbow resting on the guitar so that your wrist (and entire forearm) is free to naturally move up and down.

Strumming is mostly used to play chords, but can be used to play notes if the other strings are dead (or broken!). Many people question whether this is true, but if you check out Can’t Stop by The Red Hot Chilli Peppers, you’ll be hearing notes that are strummed for the main riff.

Strumming strokes can go up or down, which make slightly different sounds and are important to get right because they effect the rhythm and flow of the song.