Play Wonderwall: GUITAR

Wonderwall guitar: Cult introduction to “Wonderwall” by Oasis

Wonderwall guitar: Introduction

Welcome to this guitar lesson where we'll dive into the iconic introduction to “Wonderwall” of Oasis, played by Noel Gallagher.
If you ask how to play the Guitar Intro of Wonderwall well you are in the right place!
If you are also looking to improve your strumming technique, this exercise is perfect for you. Rhythm, or strumming, is an essential element for any guitarist, and this song is a great starting point for perfecting this skill.

Wonderwall Guitar intro: Using the Capo

Introduction to the Capo

First of all, it is important to note that in this lesson, we are using a capo placed in fret 2 to be at the same height as the original version of Wonderwall. The capo, also known as a “capo,” is an essential accessory for many guitarists because it allows you to change the tone of the guitar without changing the position of the fingers.

Wonderwall Guitar intro: Why Use a Capo?

The capo is used for several reasons:

• Change the Tone : By placing the capo on a specific fret, you can play in a different key without having to relearn the chords. For “Wonderwall,” putting the capo in fret 2 raises the tone one tone, which matches the original.
• Make the Game Easier : Some songs use chords that are easier to play with a capo. This allows you to maintain familiar chord positions while playing in varied keys.
• Vary the Sound : The capo slightly modifies the tone of the guitar, adding a new sonic color to your playing.

What to do if you don't have a capo?

If you don't have a capo, don't worry. You can definitely train without it at first. This will allow you to familiarize yourself with chords and rhythm. However, it is important to understand that without a capo, you will not be able to play along with the original recording of “Wonderwall” without risking sounding out of tune. The difference in tone will be noticeable and may interfere with the harmony.

Playing Without Capo

If you choose to play without a capo, keep the following points in mind:

• Transposition : Without a capo, you will play the same chord positions, but the tone will be lower. For example, a G chord played without a capo will sound like a G, but with the capo in fret 2 it will sound like an A.
• Practical : Using this method to practice chord changes and rhythm is completely valid. Once you feel comfortable, you can add the capo to play at the correct height.

Wonderwall Guitar intro: The Strumming Technique

Hand Movement

The movement of the hand holding the pick is crucial in strumming. When you brush the strings, your movement must be fluid and constant. Imagine that your hand is a kind of natural metronome. To do this, relax your wrist slightly and concentrate on a regular back and forth movement.

Use of Symbols

In sheet music and tablature, you will often find symbols to indicate the direction of pick strokes. Here's what they mean:

• Small bridge (∩) : Indicates a downward stroke. Your hand moves down, brushing the strings from lowest to highest.
• “V” : Indicates an upward stroke. Your hand moves up, brushing the strings from the highest to the lowest.

Take the time to practice these movements by repeating them slowly. Start with single strokes down, then up, before combining the two.

Wonderwall Guitar intro: The Chords Used

Approach to Agreements

A particularity of “Wonderwall” is the use of chords common in the folk and songwriter repertoire. The technique consists of maintaining a fixed part of the chords in the treble, using mainly the middle and little fingers, while the index and ring fingers move to form the chords.

List of Agreements

Here are the chords you will play on repeat:

• Em7 : This chord adds a touch of depth and richness of sound.
• G : A major chord that brings brilliance to the progression.
• Dsus4 : This suspended chord adds interesting musical tension.
• Em7/A : A variation of the Em7 which introduces a new harmonic dimension.
• Back to G : To conclude the loop with a familiar note.

Wonderwall Guitar intro: Loop structure

Measurements and Loops

The chord loop of “Wonderwall” spans two measures. The first loop is distinguished from the following by its slightly different rhythm. However, once you pass the first loop, subsequent loops are identical, making it easier to remember and perform.

Chord Placement

One of the main challenges of this rhythm is the placement of chords. Unlike many songs where the chords generally change on beat, here, with the exception of Em7, all other chords are played off-beat.

• Em7 : Played over time.
• G : Played on the second sixteenth note.
• Dsus4 : Played on the second sixteenth note as well.
• Em7/A : Appears on the fourth sixteenth note.

This means that, except for the Em7, all other chords are played on a single stroke. This placement may seem unusual at first, but with practice you will quickly get used to it.

Wonderwall Guitar intro: Identifying Chords

To make it easier for you, the chords are highlighted in red in the accompanying video. This allows you to quickly identify them and make sure you're playing the right chords at the right time.

Wonderwall Guitar intro: Practice and Tips

Slow down the Tempo

When you're starting out, it's essential to slow down the tempo. Use our player to keep a consistent pace and start at a comfortable speed. Gradually increase the speed as you feel more comfortable.

Separate Hands

At first, it can be helpful to work on the left hand (which forms the chords) and the right hand (which does the strumming) separately. Practice chord changes with your left hand without worrying about strumming, then just focus on strumming with your right hand.

Video and Recordings

Record yourself playing and watch the video to spot mistakes and correct them. Comparing your game with our video can also help you identify areas for improvement.

Consistency and Precision

The key to strumming is consistency. Make sure each pick stroke is precise and the rhythm remains consistent. Once you feel comfortable, try playing with more dynamism and expression.

Wonderwall guitar: Difficulties and Solutions

Placement of Shifted Chords

Staggered chord placement can be difficult at first. A tip is to count the beats and sixteenth notes out loud to help you place the chords correctly.

Transition Between Chords

Quick transitions between chords can be problematic. Practice chord changes over and over until you can do them without hesitation.

Tired Right Hand

Constant strumming can tire your right hand. Take regular breaks and stretch your fingers and wrist to avoid strain.

Wonderwall guitar: Additional Exercises

Exercise 1: Basic Strumming

Start with basic strumming exercises using only downward strokes. Then add upward strokes to create a continuous rhythm.

Exercise 2: Chord Change

Choose two chords from the song (for example, Em7 and G) and practice the changes between these two chords over and over.

Exercise 3: Complex Rhythm

Once you feel comfortable with basic strumming, try playing more complex rhythms by varying the strokes down and up.

By following these steps and practicing regularly, you will become more comfortable with the rhythm and chord changes of “Wonderwall”. Take your time, be patient with yourself and remember to have fun while playing. Music is above all a source of pleasure and personal expression.

Wonderwall guitar: In summary!

Here is a summary of the different aspects of learning the introduction to “Wonderwall”:

• Strumming technique : Understand and practice pick strokes.
• Chords used : Finger positions and chord changes.
• Loop structure : Bars, rhythms and chord placement.
• Practice and tips : Techniques to improve your game.
• Difficulties and solutions : How to overcome common challenges.
• Additional exercises : To strengthen your technique.