Guitar Chords For Falling Slowly

Guitar chords for falling slowly are essential for any guitarist looking to play this beautiful and emotive song from the film "Once." Written by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, "Falling Slowly" has captivated audiences with its poignant lyrics and haunting melody. In this article, we will explore the guitar chords needed to play this song, provide a chord progression guide, discuss strumming patterns, and offer tips for mastering the piece. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this guide will help you bring "Falling Slowly" to life.

Understanding the Basics of the Song

Before diving into the specific chords, it's important to understand the overall structure of "Falling Slowly." The song is typically played in a 4/4 time signature and has a moderate tempo. The emotional weight of the lyrics combined with the simplicity of the guitar chords makes it accessible for players of all skill levels.

Chords Used in "Falling Slowly"

The main chords used in "Falling Slowly" are relatively simple and can be played in open position. Here’s a list of the chords you will need:

• G


• C


• D


• Em


• Am

These chords form the backbone of the song, and with practice, you will be able to transition smoothly between them.

Chord Progressions for "Falling Slowly"

The progression of the chords is what gives "Falling Slowly" its unique emotional quality. Below, we will break down the chord progressions used throughout the song.

Verse Chord Progression

The verses of "Falling Slowly" primarily use the following progression:

1. G


2. C


3. Em


4. D

This progression repeats throughout each verse, making it easy to memorize.

Chorus Chord Progression

The chorus introduces a slight variation:

1. C


2. G


3. Am


4. D

This change adds depth to the emotional impact of the song, allowing the listener to feel the transition from verse to chorus.

Strumming Patterns for "Falling Slowly"

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the chords and progressions, the next step is to work on your strumming pattern. The strumming in "Falling Slowly" is gentle and flowing, which complements the song's overall feeling. Here’s a simple pattern to start with:

• Down, down-up, up, down-up

Feel free to modify this pattern as you become more comfortable with the chords. The key is to maintain a steady rhythm that matches the emotion of the song.

Tips for Practicing

Here are some effective tips for practicing "Falling Slowly":

1. Start Slowly: Begin by playing each chord in the progression slowly. Focus on transitioning between chords without rushing.


2. Use a Metronome: Practicing with a metronome can help you develop your timing and rhythm.


3. Listen to the Song: Familiarize yourself with the original recording to get a sense of how the chords fit into the overall structure.


4. Record Yourself: Recording your practice sessions can help you identify areas for improvement.


5. Play Along: Once you're comfortable, try playing along with the song to test your skills.

Advanced Techniques for "Falling Slowly"

If you’re looking to add more depth to your performance, consider incorporating some advanced techniques:

Fingerpicking

Fingerpicking can bring a delicate quality to "Falling Slowly." Instead of strumming, try picking individual strings to create a more intricate sound. A common fingerpicking pattern to start with is:

• Thumb (bass note)


• Index (3rd string)


• Middle (2nd string)


• Ring (1st string)

This pattern can be repeated for each chord in the progression.

Adding Suspended Chords

You can also enhance the emotional quality of the song by incorporating suspended chords. For example, try playing a Csus2 instead of a C:

• Csus2: x30010

This small change can create a richer harmonic texture.

Final Thoughts

Learning guitar chords for falling slowly can be a rewarding experience for any musician. Not only does it allow you to play a beloved song, but it also enhances your skills as a guitarist. By mastering the chords, practicing regularly, and experimenting with different techniques, you can create a beautiful rendition of this heartfelt piece.

Remember, the most important aspect of learning any song is to enjoy the process. So take your time, have fun, and let the music guide you. Whether you’re playing for yourself, friends, or a larger audience, "Falling Slowly" is sure to leave a lasting impression. Happy playing!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic guitar chords used in 'Falling Slowly'?

The basic chords used in 'Falling Slowly' are G, C, Em, and D.

Is 'Falling Slowly' suitable for beginner guitar players?

Yes, 'Falling Slowly' is suitable for beginners as it uses simple chords and a straightforward strumming pattern.

What is the strumming pattern for 'Falling Slowly'?

A common strumming pattern for 'Falling Slowly' is down, down-up, up, down-up.

Are there any capo suggestions for playing 'Falling Slowly'?

You can use a capo on the second fret to match the original key and make it easier to play the chords.

How can I improve my chord transitions for 'Falling Slowly'?

Practice switching between the chords slowly, use a metronome, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

What fingerpicking pattern works well for 'Falling Slowly'?

A simple fingerpicking pattern can be: thumb on the bass note, then index, middle, and ring fingers on the higher strings in a sequence.

Are there any online resources for learning 'Falling Slowly' on guitar?

Yes, there are many online tutorials, including video lessons on YouTube and chord charts on guitar tab websites.