Learn 'A Volta' By Roberto Carlos: Simplified Chords

by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Hey music lovers! Ever wanted to play the timeless classic "A Volta" by the legendary Roberto Carlos on your guitar? Well, you're in luck! This article is your ultimate guide to mastering the simplified chords of this beautiful song. We're going to break down the chords, strumming patterns, and provide some helpful tips to get you playing along in no time. So, grab your guitar, and let's dive into the world of Roberto Carlos!

Decoding the Simplicity: Why Simplified Chords?

First things first, why are we focusing on simplified chords? For many of us, learning to play the guitar can be a journey. Complex chord voicings and intricate fingerings can sometimes feel like a huge obstacle. That's where simplified chords come in. They allow you to:

  • Get started quickly: Simplified chords use basic and common chord shapes. This means you can begin playing the song almost immediately, without getting bogged down in difficult techniques. Think of it as the express lane to learning “A Volta.”
  • Focus on the music: By using simpler chords, you can shift your attention to the rhythm, melody, and overall feel of the song. You'll be able to truly appreciate Roberto Carlos's artistry as you play along.
  • Build a foundation: Mastering simplified chords is a fantastic way to develop your guitar skills. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually explore more complex chord variations, but this is a great starting point.
  • Boost your confidence: Successfully playing a song like “A Volta,” even with simplified chords, is incredibly rewarding. It provides a sense of accomplishment and motivates you to keep learning.

So, if you're a beginner or just looking for an easier way to play this classic, simplified chords are the way to go. They’re your best friend! They make the song accessible and fun.

The Core Chords You Need

Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the chords themselves. The good news is that "A Volta" primarily uses a handful of basic chords. This makes the learning process significantly easier. Here are the simplified chords you'll need:

  • G Major (G): This is a cornerstone chord. It's bright and cheerful, and you'll find it throughout the song. The G chord is formed by placing your second finger on the 6th string, third fret; your first finger on the 5th string, second fret; and your third finger on the 1st string, third fret.
  • C Major (C): Another essential chord, the C major adds a touch of warmth. To play C, put your third finger on the 5th string, third fret; your second finger on the 4th string, second fret; and your first finger on the 2nd string, first fret.
  • D Major (D): This chord provides a bit of tension and release. For D, place your second finger on the 3rd string, second fret; your first finger on the 1st string, second fret; and your third finger on the 2nd string, third fret.
  • Em (E minor): E minor adds a touch of melancholy, a common feeling in many Brazilian songs. To play Em, put your second finger on the 5th string, second fret, and your first finger on the 4th string, second fret.

These four chords are the foundation of “A Volta.” Mastering them will unlock the song for you.

The Chord Progression: Unraveling the Structure of 'A Volta'

Now that you know the chords, let's explore how they fit together in the song's structure. This is where the magic happens! Here's a simplified version of the chord progression for the main sections of "A Volta.” Remember, this is a simplified version, but it captures the essence of the song:

  • Intro: G - C - G - D
  • Verse: G - C - G - D
  • Chorus: G - C - G - D

As you can see, the progression is relatively straightforward. The repetition of these chords makes it easier to memorize and play. The Intro usually sets the mood, the Verse tells the story, and the Chorus is the song's emotional peak.

Strumming Patterns: Adding Rhythm and Feel

Once you have the chords and progression down, it's time to add the rhythm. The strumming pattern is what brings the song to life! A good strumming pattern for “A Volta” is:

  • Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up

You can use this pattern throughout most of the song, but feel free to experiment with variations to add your own personal touch. Focus on keeping a steady beat and letting the music flow. Listen to the original song to get a feel for the rhythm and timing. It's okay if you don't get it perfect at first; practice makes perfect!

Tips and Tricks for Learning 'A Volta'

Here are some helpful tips to make your learning journey smoother and more enjoyable:

  • Start Slow: Don't rush! Begin by practicing the chord changes slowly and deliberately. Focus on making clean transitions between the chords. Speed will come with practice.
  • Listen to the Song: Familiarize yourself with the original recording of "A Volta.” This will help you understand the rhythm, melody, and overall feel of the song. Try to sing along while you play.
  • Use a Metronome: A metronome is your best friend when it comes to keeping a steady beat. It will help you develop your timing and improve your rhythm. There are many free metronome apps available.
  • Practice Regularly: Consistency is key! Even if you only have a few minutes each day, regular practice is more effective than sporadic long sessions. Aim for at least 15-30 minutes of practice daily.
  • Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing can be a great way to identify areas for improvement. You'll be able to hear any mistakes and track your progress.
  • Don't Give Up: Learning to play the guitar takes time and effort. There will be times when you get frustrated, but don't give up! Celebrate your successes and keep practicing. The feeling of finally playing "A Volta" will be worth it!
  • Find Tutorials Online: YouTube is a treasure trove of guitar tutorials. Search for "A Volta guitar tutorial" or "Roberto Carlos guitar lesson" to find videos that can help you learn the song.

Putting It All Together: Practice and Performance

Now it's time to put everything together! Start by practicing the chord changes slowly. Then, gradually increase the tempo. Once you feel comfortable with the chords and rhythm, try playing along with the original song. This is a great way to improve your timing and develop your musical ear.

Once you can play the song comfortably, consider sharing your performance with friends and family. Even if you're not a seasoned guitarist, playing for others can be a fun and rewarding experience. Don't worry about being perfect; just enjoy the music!

Beyond the Basics: Further Exploration

Once you've mastered the simplified version of "A Volta," you can explore further.

  • Learn the full chords: Study the original, full chords to learn the song in its complete form. This will add more complexity and richness to your playing.
  • Experiment with Fingerpicking: Try fingerpicking the chords instead of strumming. This can add a different texture to the song.
  • Learn the Melody: Try to learn the melody of "A Volta" on your guitar. This will challenge your skills and enhance your understanding of the song.
  • Write Your Own Variations: Feel free to experiment with the song structure, adding your own personal touch.

Conclusion: Your Journey with 'A Volta' Starts Now!

Congratulations! You now have the knowledge and tools you need to play "A Volta" by Roberto Carlos on your guitar. Remember to be patient with yourself, practice regularly, and most importantly, have fun. The journey of learning a song can be a rewarding experience. Embrace the process, and enjoy the music! You've got this!

This article provides a basic understanding of the simplified chords, the progression, and tips that will help you. Keep practicing, and you'll be playing "A Volta" like a pro in no time! So, grab your guitar and start playing. Have fun!