Hey guys! Ever wanted to learn how to play "My Portion You Will Ever Be"? Well, you've come to the right place! This guide will break down the chords, offer some playing tips, and help you understand the song's structure so you can nail it every time. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, there's something here for everyone. Let's dive in and get those fingers moving!

Understanding the Song

Before we jump into the chords, let's take a moment to understand the essence of "My Portion You Will Ever Be." This is often a worship song, expressing a deep sense of reliance, trust, and devotion. Knowing this can help you connect with the music on a deeper level, which will enhance your playing. The song's simple yet powerful message resonates with many, making it a popular choice in church services and personal worship sessions. Understanding the song's context not only enriches your playing experience but also helps you convey the emotional depth of the music to your audience. The lyrical content speaks volumes, portraying a sense of complete surrender and finding solace in faith. As you play, remember to channel this emotion, allowing it to flow through your fingers and into the melody. This connection will transform your performance from merely playing notes to expressing a heartfelt message. As you familiarize yourself with the song, you'll notice the recurring themes of trust, reliance, and devotion, which form the backbone of the musical narrative. These themes provide a framework for understanding the emotional landscape of the song, and by aligning your playing with these sentiments, you can create a more authentic and impactful rendition. Consider the dynamics, tempo, and overall feel of the song as you practice, allowing yourself to be guided by the emotional undercurrents that drive the composition. Whether you're playing solo or as part of a group, remember to stay true to the song's core message, conveying a sense of reverence and intimacy that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

Basic Chords

Okay, let's get to the nitty-gritty! The chords for "My Portion You Will Ever Be" are generally quite simple, making it accessible for beginners. You'll typically find these chords used:

• G Major (G): A foundational chord, often used to create a bright and uplifting feel. The G chord generally starts on the 3rd fret of the low E string (the thickest string). You will then use your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, and your index finger on the second fret of the high E string.
• C Major (C): Another essential chord, providing a nice contrast to G. C major is another common chord. You'll usually find this starting on the first fret of the B string with your index finger. Then, you will use your middle finger on the second fret of the D string, and finally your ring finger on the third fret of the A string.
• D Major (D): Adds a bit of tension and resolution, leading nicely back to G. The D chord usually starts with your index finger on the second fret of the G string, your middle finger on the second fret of the high E string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the B string.
• Em (E minor): Offers a more somber or reflective tone, adding depth to the song. For the Em chord, you will use your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the D string.

These are the basic building blocks. You might find variations or additions depending on the specific arrangement, but mastering these will get you a long way. Remember to practice transitioning smoothly between these chords. Start slowly, focusing on clean finger placement and clear sound. Speed will come with time and repetition. Don't get discouraged if it feels awkward at first; everyone goes through that. The key is to keep practicing consistently. Try setting aside even just 15-20 minutes each day to work on these transitions. Over time, your fingers will develop muscle memory, making the changes feel more natural and fluid. Also, pay attention to the pressure you're applying to the strings. Too much pressure can cause the notes to sound sharp, while too little pressure can result in buzzing or muted sounds. Find the right balance to achieve a clear, resonant tone. Experiment with different fingerings as well. While the standard fingerings are a good starting point, you might find that certain variations feel more comfortable or allow for faster transitions. Ultimately, the best fingerings are the ones that work best for you. So, take the time to explore and find what feels most natural and efficient. Remember, the goal is not just to play the chords correctly but to play them with confidence and ease. This comes from consistent practice and a willingness to experiment. So, keep at it, and you'll be playing "My Portion You Will Ever Be" in no time!

Chord Progressions

Most versions of the song follow a simple, repeating chord progression. A very common one is: G - D - Em - C. This sequence provides a beautiful, circular feel that’s easy to follow and sing along to. You might also encounter variations like G - C - D - G, which offers a slightly different flavor but is equally effective. Practicing these progressions repeatedly will help you internalize the song's structure. As you become more comfortable, try adding some rhythmic variations to make your playing more interesting. Experiment with different strumming patterns, accents, and dynamics to create a more nuanced and expressive performance. For example, you could try emphasizing the downbeats or adding a syncopated rhythm to give the song a bit of a groove. Another way to add variety is to incorporate some simple fingerpicking patterns. This can be a great way to add texture and depth to the song, especially if you're playing solo. Start with basic patterns, such as alternating between the bass notes and the higher strings, and gradually add more complexity as you become more confident. Remember, the key is to find patterns that complement the song's melody and enhance its emotional impact. As you explore different chord progressions and rhythmic variations, pay attention to how they affect the overall feel of the song. Some progressions may sound more uplifting and joyful, while others may evoke a sense of longing or introspection. By understanding the emotional nuances of different chord sequences, you can tailor your playing to better convey the song's message. Also, don't be afraid to experiment with different inversions of the chords. An inversion is simply a different way of playing the same chord, with a different note in the bass. By using different inversions, you can create smoother transitions between chords and add a sense of movement to the music. For example, you could try playing a G chord with the B note in the bass, which can create a more seamless transition from a D chord. As you become more proficient, you can also start incorporating more advanced techniques, such as passing chords and chord substitutions. These techniques can add color and complexity to your playing, but it's important to use them sparingly and in a way that enhances the song's overall structure. The goal is not to show off your skills but to create a more beautiful and engaging musical experience for yourself and your listeners.

Strumming Patterns

Strumming is where you can really add your personal touch! For "My Portion You Will Ever Be," a simple down-down-up-down-up pattern works wonders. However, feel free to experiment. Try adding some palm muting for a more percussive sound, or use a more intricate pattern if you're feeling adventurous. The key is to find a rhythm that feels natural and complements the song's mood. Don't be afraid to deviate from the standard patterns to create your own unique interpretation. One technique you can try is adding a slight pause or hesitation between strums to create a sense of anticipation. This can be particularly effective during intros or verses where you want to build tension. Another technique is to vary the dynamics of your strumming, playing some strums louder and others softer. This can add a sense of expression and emotion to your playing, making the song more engaging for the listener. For example, you might play the first strum of each measure with a bit more emphasis, followed by softer strums for the rest of the measure. You can also experiment with different strumming directions. While the down-down-up-down-up pattern is a good starting point, you can try incorporating more upstrokes or downstrokes to create different rhythmic effects. For example, you might try a pattern of down-up-down-up-down-up, which can give the song a more upbeat and energetic feel. Another technique is to use a combination of strumming and fingerpicking. This can be a great way to add texture and depth to the song, especially if you're playing solo. You can strum the chords for the verses and then switch to fingerpicking for the chorus, or vice versa. The possibilities are endless. As you experiment with different strumming patterns, pay attention to how they interact with the song's melody. The goal is to find a pattern that complements the melody and enhances its emotional impact. For example, if the melody is slow and melancholic, you might want to use a softer and more subdued strumming pattern. On the other hand, if the melody is upbeat and joyful, you might want to use a more energetic and rhythmic strumming pattern. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to strumming. The most important thing is to have fun and express yourself through the music. So, don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. The more you play, the more you'll develop your own unique style and sound.

Putting It All Together

Now that you know the chords, progressions, and some strumming patterns, it's time to put it all together! Start slowly, focusing on accuracy. Once you're comfortable with the chord changes, gradually increase the tempo. Sing along as you play to really internalize the song. And don't forget to record yourself! Listening back can help you identify areas for improvement. It's also a great way to track your progress and stay motivated. When you're ready, try playing with others. Playing with other musicians can be a fun and rewarding experience, and it can also help you improve your timing and rhythm. Playing with others can also help you learn new techniques and approaches to playing the song. For example, you might learn a new strumming pattern or a new way to voice the chords. You might also learn how to improvise and add your own personal touch to the song. Don't be afraid to make mistakes when playing with others. Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process, and they can actually help you improve your playing. The key is to learn from your mistakes and not get discouraged. Also, remember to listen to the other musicians and try to blend your playing with theirs. The goal is to create a cohesive and harmonious sound. When playing with others, it's important to be respectful of their ideas and suggestions. Everyone has their own unique perspective on the music, and it's important to be open to different interpretations. Collaboration is a key part of making music with others. By working together, you can create something that is greater than the sum of its parts. So, embrace the opportunity to play with others and learn from their experiences. Remember, the goal is to have fun and create beautiful music together. So, relax, enjoy the process, and let the music flow. With practice and dedication, you'll be playing "My Portion You Will Ever Be" like a pro in no time!

Advanced Tips

Feeling confident? Let’s take things up a notch! Try adding some simple lead lines or fills between chords. Experiment with different voicings of the chords to add color. And if you’re really feeling ambitious, try transposing the song to a different key to better suit your vocal range. One way to add lead lines or fills is to use a simple pentatonic scale. A pentatonic scale is a five-note scale that is commonly used in blues and rock music. It's a great scale to use for improvising because it sounds good over a variety of different chords. Another way to add lead lines or fills is to use a simple arpeggio. An arpeggio is a chord that is played one note at a time. Arpeggios can be a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your playing. When experimenting with different voicings of the chords, try using different inversions. An inversion is simply a different way of playing the same chord, with a different note in the bass. By using different inversions, you can create smoother transitions between chords and add a sense of movement to the music. For example, you could try playing a G chord with the B note in the bass, which can create a more seamless transition from a D chord. When transposing the song to a different key, be sure to adjust the chords accordingly. You can use a capo to easily transpose the song to a different key. A capo is a device that clamps down on the strings of the guitar, raising the pitch of all the strings. By placing the capo on a different fret, you can easily transpose the song to a different key. For example, if you place the capo on the second fret, you will raise the pitch of all the strings by two semitones, effectively transposing the song to a higher key. Remember, the goal is to have fun and express yourself through the music. So, don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. The more you play, the more you'll develop your own unique style and sound.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Playing "My Portion You Will Ever Be" doesn't have to be intimidating. With a little practice and these tips, you'll be leading worship or serenading your friends in no time. Keep practicing, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep enjoying the music! You've got this, guys! Now go make some beautiful music!