Bluegrass Rhythm Guitar In-Depth - Bass-Strum & Down-Up-Down-Up Strum.

Martin Gilmore
Martin Gilmore
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Published 2023-09-05
Here is an in depth lesson about playing basic bluegrass rhythm guitar. It covers the basic alternating bass strum (which I refer to as "Bass-Strum"). Focus on clearly playing the bass notes and playing the top three (G-B-e) strings for the strum. Also concentrate on playing the bass notes right over the rosette behind the sound-hole and play the strum as close to the bridge as possible. Aim for the "V" space between the back of the pickguard and the bridge.

The "Down-Up-Down-Up" strum is more difficult. Practice it very slowly concentrating on being exactly accurate on what strings you are playing. the up-strokes should be on the B-G-D strings and the down-stroke on the G-B-e strings. Remember to keep the beat as straight and even as possible. Don't swing it. Remember that it should sound like a train, not a cowboy.

Post questions below and I'll try to answer them.

Good luck!

Do you want more lessons like this one? Check out my Patreon site at www.patreon.com/MartinGilmore
All Comments (21)
  • @solinadave5769
    I've been playing and singing country songs for years Martin, and used, as you put it, the "incorrect" strum pattern regularly. A big space with no drive or forward motion. The idea of incorporating the 3 string upstrokes is a great revelation for me. For whatever reason, I have assumed a great interest in bluegrass music lately. So thank you very much for those excellent tips, and your very effective presentation. Just the very best.
  • @Porposkiarea
    Thank you ... finally, someone was able to teach me exactly what I needed. All the other videos did not help me personally at my beginner level. Very good video.
  • @frontporchpickin289
    Brother, this space of strum embelishments is incredibly undertaught on youtube. SO helpful!
  • @leebarron4777
    As a beginner bluegrass and old country picker I really appreciate the lessons, thank you
  • @ewilliams1185
    When you added the singing to illustrate your point, everything clicked. Great video! Thank you.
  • @tomf429
    I’ve been playing my D-18 for over 50 years. I’m in a working bluegrass group. I play a solid 12 hours a week between practice, noodling, and gigs. Even so, you taught this old guy a few things. Thanks so much! Always learning.
  • @ouyrwq
    So, so outstanding. Finally an articulate instructor who instructs with clear, concise direction. I have been searching for you for years. Thank you.
  • @deliaguzman1138
    Now THIS is a valuable lesson with a great teaching style! I’ve been a rock, folk, and country lead guitar player for over 40 years—and now I’m finally trying to play bluegrass rhythms. Hoo boy. Always loved it, never understood how to play it. Now I know a little more! Subscribed!
  • @mns8732
    Great lesson for me because I was trying to unlock a rhythm for 9 #hammer but I didn't know what strings ti play on the up strokes until you described the mechanics. Tip of the hat to you.
  • @reneemyers3787
    Outstanding lesson...immediately improved my sound! Thanks...Can't wait for the lesson on bass lines and embellishments. I will be looking for that. Thanks Martin!
  • @mylesguitar
    Absolutely brilliant sir, thank you for taking the time to share