Song Sheet Format: Each song sheet has the chords and lyrics for one song. The lyrics are divided into measures with a double space between each measure. Sometimes part of the lyrics from the previous line is put in parentheses on the next line to help the singing flow of the song.
A chord symbol appears above the beginning of each measure. A vertical bar is placed in front of the chord symbol if it is not the first chord in the measure ( |G ). If no slashes follow the chord, the same chord is played for all four beats of the measure. (3 beats if the song in in 3/4 time.)
If two different chords are played in the same measure, the chord symbol means to play a single strum. A slash means to play the previous chord again. All four beats in the measure will have a chord symbol or a slash. ( |C |C / C7 / |F ) = 4 C chords, 2 C chords, 2 C7 chords, 4 F chords.)
Similarly; |Bb |Bb / A Ab |G = 4 B flat chords, 2 Bb chords, 1 A chord, 1 Ab chord, 4 G chords.
Some songs have special strum patterns. This pattern is down, down, up, - up, down, up. The timing is: 1 2 & - & 4 & . This is called the calypso strum, but is used for many songs of all types.
Most songs have a symbol indicating the first note that is sung. This symbol states that the first note is a G, played by pressing on the second from bottom (E) string just behind the 3rd fret.
Chord diagrams show suggested fingerings for a chord. Other options are acceptable. To create a B Flat, use your first finger (pointer) to press down both the first and second strings (A and E) just behind the first fret. Use you second finger (middle finger) to press the third string (C) just behind the second fret. Use you third finger (ring) to press the fourth string (G) just behind the third fret. Your first finger is making a barre (indicated by the arch) across two strings. The dark bar is called the nut, which holds the strings in place. Some diagrams show fingerings down the fret board from the nut. Those symbols will not have the nut, and will have a number showing the fret. A small "o" is placed above a string that is played open - with no fingers on it.
