Accents with 8th Note Strumming

Up to this point, every strum has been played evenly. In this lesson, we keep the same 8th-note strumming pattern but begin shifting where the accent lands.

How it Works

You’ll move the accent through the bar — starting on beat 1, then the “+” of 1, then 2, the “+” of 2, and so on — while continuing to strum:

1 + 2 + 3 + 4 +

The focus isn’t speed or volume, but control. Every strum stays consistent, while the accent changes.

By the end of this lesson, you should feel comfortable emphasizing any beat at any moment — an essential skill for musical, dynamic strumming.