Down in the Valley guitar chords
A two-chord waltz, as gentle as songs get.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 3/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, D
Why this song is worth learning
A gentle folk song in three-time that uses just two chords. It is a simple way to practise the waltz bass-and-strum pattern without learning many shapes.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| D | x x 0 2 3 2 |
x means do not play that string, 0 means play it open. Tap any shape on the page to hear it.
Play along
Press play. The track counts you in, clicks the beat and lights up the chord you should be holding. Drop the tempo while you are learning and raise it once you can get through without stopping.
Chord order
| Verse | G | G | D | D | D | D | G | G |
|---|
Each group is one bar. Count 3 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
Bass - strum - strum
D is a down-strum and U is an up-strum. If the pattern feels like too much at first, play one down-strum per bar until the chord changes are comfortable, then add the rest.
How to learn it
- Learn G and D, and make sure both ring cleanly.
- Play one bass note on beat one, then strum on beats two and three.
- Use the root note of G and D for the bass.
- Play at 96 beats per minute, and count three beats per bar out loud.
Tips that matter
- Bass first. Land the bass note on beat one; the strums come after it.
- Stay even. Keep the strum light so the bass stands out.
Questions about Down in the Valley
What chords are in Down in the Valley?
G and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Down in the Valley in?
3/4, with three beats per bar, a waltz feel. It is rated Easy.
How fast should I practise it?
The play-along is set to 96 beats per minute. Start slower while you learn the changes, then raise the tempo in small steps once you can play through without stopping.
Is Down in the Valley free to learn and share?
Yes. Traditional American folk song, in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.