Yiruma’s “River Flows In You” is a beautiful and serene piece that’s captivated audiences worldwide. The good news is, you can learn this song on guitar even if you’re a beginner! This tutorial will break down the chords and fingerpicking technique to get you started.
What You’ll Need
- Acoustic guitar (standard tuning is fine)
- Pick (optional, fingerpicking is used in this song)
- Capo (optional, but can make it easier for beginners)
- Patience and a willingness to practice!
The Chords
“River Flows In You” uses just three basic chords: F#m, D, and A. Here’s how to form them:
- F#m: 2nd fret on the E string, 2nd fret on the B string, 4th fret on the G string, 2nd fret on the D string (optional: barre the 2nd fret across all strings for a fuller sound)
- D: Open D string, 0th fret (open) B string, 3rd fret on the G string, 2nd fret on the D string, 0th fret (open) A string
- A: Open A string, 2nd fret on the B string, 2nd fret on the G string, 0th fret (open) D string, 0th fret (open) E string
Playing the Chords
Strumming the chords is a great way to start getting familiar with the song. You can try switching between them at a slow pace, focusing on clean transitions.
Fingerpicking Magic
The true beauty of “River Flows In You” lies in its fingerpicking pattern. There are online resources that offer detailed tablature (fingerpicking notation), but here’s a simplified approach for beginners:
- Start with the melody on the higher strings (typically the E and B strings). Many resources offer simplified fingerpicking tabs for the melody.
- Use your thumb to pluck the bass notes on the thicker strings (D, G, and A strings) while playing the melody with your fingers. The bass notes often correspond to the chord root (the lowest note).
Practice Tips
- Slow Down: Don’t rush! It’s better to play slowly and cleanly than to make mistakes at high speed.
- Focus on Clarity: Make sure each note rings out clearly. Pay attention to muting unused strings with your fretting hand.
- Use a metronome: This will help you develop a steady rhythm and improve your timing.
- Record Yourself: Listen back to your playing and identify areas for improvement.
Learning Resources
For a more in-depth look at the fingerpicking pattern, consider searching for “[YouTube] River Flows In You fingerpicking tutorial.” There are many great video lessons available that can show you exactly how to play the song.
Embrace the Journey
Learning “River Flows In You” takes time and dedication. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and most importantly, have fun! With consistent practice, you’ll be playing this beautiful song in no time.
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