Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" and Guitar Lesson by Justin

Overview

• Song: "Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen
• Covers: KD Lang, Rufus Wainwright, Jeff Buckley (famous versions)
• Focus: Chords, strumming pattern, dynamics, and fingerstyle

Strumming Pattern

• Time Signature: 6/8 (two groups of three)
• Basic Strumming: Two strums per bar (down strums)
  • Count: One two three four five six (repeated)
• Simple Version: Two strums for a bar (one strum on F and G where applicable)
• Basic Pattern: One two three four five six (all down strums)

Chords Progression

• Verses:

  • Start with C for a whole bar
  • Move to A minor
  • Back to C
  • A minor to F
  • F to G
  • C to G

• Chorus:

  • Half bar of F
  • Half bar of G
  • Whole bar A minor
  • Whole bar of F
  • Whole bar of G
  • Whole bar E
  • A minor
  • F to G
  • A minor for two bars
  • Bar of C
  • Bar of G
  • G and repeat

Additional Tips

• Difficult Chord: E with G sharp bass (not beginner-friendly)
• Writing Chord Progression: Helpful to see the pattern of the chords
• Chord Patterns: More elusive but still present, worth writing down

Dynamics and Variations

• Strumming Variations: Can vary the pattern a little, maintaining the pulse
• Dynamics: Varying volume and intensity adds interest; can bring it down for more intimate sections
• Fingerstyle: Works well for this song, using thumb and three fingers for basic fingerstyle patterns
  • Pattern: Thumb (bass), 1, 2, 3 (thinnest strings)
• Recommendation: Experiment with fingerstyle for a different feel

Important Points

• Feel of the Song: Different from typical 4/4 songs, important to get the 6/8 feel correct
• Strumming Pulse: Stronger pulse on 1 and 4 keeps the groove moving
• Dynamics in Performance: Changing dynamics avoids monotony

Fingerstyle Intro Example

• Lyrics:
  • "Heard there was a secret chord, David played and it pleased the Lord"
  • Fingerstyle creates an intimate setting, enhancing the song's emotional depth

Conclusion

• Practice: Experiment with strumming patterns, dynamics, and fingerstyle
• Revisit: Good song to revisit when learning fingerstyle techniques