how do i play chords?

There are many ways to strum chords, but I suggest that you start with a simple rhythm of all down strokes over all of the strings. When you feel comfortable with that try alternating down and up strokes, again over all of the strings.

You don't have to hit the strings hard, just move your forearm, rather than your wrist. As you get more accustomed to strumming, you'll find a natural tendency to make use of the wrist - it's fine as long as the forearm is doing more work than the wrist.

A properly strummed chord will sound just like a single note, just "bigger, fatter and fuller".

You need to feel happy with those rhythms before moving on to more complex patterns.

how do u know how many times u strum each chord?

Ah, Grasshopper, you are seeking one of the secrets of Universe. 8)

In this case, though, the answer is not 42. :lol:

A good starting point, is to do simple strumming according to the time signature - if it is 4/4 (often shown as a "C"), then you should start with 4 strums per bar and three for 3/4 (stay away from anything more complex, for the moment).

It may not sound like the original, but you have to walk before you can run, Grasshopper :lol: .

k thanks...it would be nice if u stopped calling me grasshopper because personally i am DAMN SCARED of all insects..so, maybe like..piglet or osmething?

Try looking up the TV Series "Kung Fu" on the internet and you'll understand the "Grasshopper" (either that or ask your parents) :lol: :lol:

Strumming a chord depends on what strings are necessary for the chord. Most open chord requires all the strings be played at the same time, but there are exceptions such as the open D chord which only uses the bottom four strings. might want to start with some beginner lessons here on Guitar Noise (tm) and maybe other websites and some books. As for how to strum particular songs you'll eventually train your ear to pick up how the song is played and figure it out from there or do your best to fake it. Always remember....Do, or do not. There is no try. :)

Try looking up the TV Series "Kung Fu" on the internet and you'll understand the "Grasshopper" (either that or ask your parents) :lol: :lol:

That's the problem with this board, it can age you in a hurry. Welcome to the ranks of the geezers.

LOL well first off, thanks for the info cyranodb, and for all of you other geezers out there, yes i do know what 'grasshopper' means..i love kung fu movies =P well...im debating on either playing or singing this song for the chapel at our school..(christian school) and i was just wondering how it should go..thanks for all the lessons though.

Here's a link that might get you started in the right direction........... the very FIRST place I would check, though, would be David Hodge's "Easy Songs For Beginners" lessons right here on GuitarNoise. He is VERY good about explaining strum patterns........... then check out....... http://guitar.about.com/library/weekly/aa072299.htm

HTH