Hey guys! Ever wanted to play "My Portion You Will Ever Be" but struggled to find the right chords or understand the song's structure? Well, you've come to the right place! This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from the basic chords to some helpful tips to really nail this beautiful song. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned guitarist, 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 appreciate the song itself. "My Portion You Will Ever Be" is a powerful worship song that speaks of devotion, reliance, and finding solace in a higher power. It’s a declaration of faith and trust, and understanding this sentiment can truly enhance your playing experience. The song’s melody is both soothing and uplifting, making it a popular choice for church services and personal reflection. When you understand the heart behind the lyrics, the chords become more than just notes on a fretboard; they become a vehicle for expressing deep emotion and spiritual connection.

The song’s structure usually follows a simple verse-chorus pattern, making it relatively easy to learn. However, the beauty lies in the nuances and the way the melody builds, creating an atmosphere of reverence and intimacy. Many arrangements also include a bridge section that adds another layer of depth and intensity to the song. Knowing the song's arrangement can help you anticipate chord changes and transitions, allowing for a smoother and more expressive performance. As you practice, pay attention to the dynamics and the subtle shifts in emotion throughout the song. This will not only improve your playing but also deepen your appreciation for the song's message.

Moreover, listening to different versions of "My Portion You Will Ever Be" can provide valuable insights into various interpretations and arrangements. Some artists may incorporate unique chord voicings, instrumental textures, or rhythmic variations that add their personal touch to the song. By exploring these different approaches, you can gain a broader understanding of the song's potential and discover new ways to express yourself through your playing. Don't be afraid to experiment and adapt different ideas to create your own unique rendition of the song.

Basic Chords

Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty – the chords! This song is usually played in the key of G major, which means we'll be using chords that fit nicely into that scale. Here are some of the most common chords you'll need:

• G Major (G): 320003
• C Major (C): x32010
• D Major (D): xx0232
• Em (E minor): 022000

These four chords form the backbone of the song. Master these, and you're already well on your way! Practice transitioning smoothly between them. A good exercise is to set a metronome and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Smooth transitions not only make your playing sound more professional but also help you maintain the song's rhythm and flow. Remember, consistency is key. Regular practice, even for short periods, is more effective than sporadic, lengthy sessions.

Beyond these basic chords, you might also encounter a few variations or embellishments depending on the specific arrangement you're playing. For example, some versions might include a G/B (x20033) chord to create a smoother bass line movement from G to C. Others might use a Dsus4 (xx0233) to add a touch of harmonic color to the D chord. Don't be intimidated by these variations. They're simply extensions of the basic chords, and with a little practice, you can easily incorporate them into your playing.

Furthermore, understanding the theory behind these chords can help you in the long run. Knowing why these chords work well together in the key of G major can empower you to explore other songs in the same key and even create your own chord progressions. Learning about scales, intervals, and chord construction can greatly enhance your musical understanding and creativity.

Chord Progressions

Now, let's put those chords into action! Here's a typical chord progression you might find in "My Portion You Will Ever Be":

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

This is a pretty standard progression, and you'll find it in many worship songs. The verse progression creates a sense of stability and peace, while the chorus progression adds a touch of longing and resolution. Feel free to experiment with strumming patterns. A simple down-down-up-down-up pattern often works well, but don't be afraid to get creative and find what sounds best to you. Pay attention to the dynamics as well. Building from a quiet verse to a more powerful chorus can add a lot of emotional impact to your performance.

Also, remember that different arrangements may have slight variations in the chord progression. Some versions might repeat the verse or chorus chords multiple times, while others might introduce additional chords to add complexity. Always listen carefully to the specific arrangement you're playing and adapt your playing accordingly. If you're unsure about a particular chord or progression, try slowing down the song and carefully listening to each chord change. With practice, you'll develop a keen ear for chord progressions and be able to play along with ease.

Moreover, try to understand the function of each chord within the progression. In the key of G major, G is the tonic (I), C is the subdominant (IV), D is the dominant (V), and Em is the relative minor (vi). Understanding these relationships can help you anticipate chord changes and improvise your own variations. For example, you might try substituting the D chord with a Dsus4 or a D7 to add a touch of harmonic interest.

Strumming Patterns

Strumming is where you can really add your own flavor to the song! While a simple down-down-up-down-up pattern is a great starting point, feel free to experiment. Try adding some palm muting for a more subdued sound, or incorporate some syncopated rhythms to create a more dynamic feel. The key is to keep the rhythm steady and consistent. Practice with a metronome to develop your timing and ensure that your strumming is in sync with the beat. This will not only improve your playing but also make it easier to play along with other musicians.

Experimenting with different strumming patterns can also help you convey different emotions. For example, a slower, more deliberate strumming pattern can create a sense of reverence and contemplation, while a faster, more energetic pattern can express joy and excitement. Pay attention to the lyrics and the overall mood of the song and choose a strumming pattern that complements the message. Don't be afraid to try new things and find what works best for you.

Additionally, try to vary your strumming dynamics throughout the song. Building from a quiet, gentle strumming pattern in the verse to a more powerful, energetic pattern in the chorus can add a lot of emotional impact to your performance. You can also use strumming dynamics to emphasize certain words or phrases in the lyrics. For example, you might strum louder on words that are particularly important or meaningful.

Tips for Beginners

Just starting out? No worries! Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

1. Start Slow: Don't try to learn everything at once. Focus on mastering the basic chords and transitions first.
2. Practice Regularly: Even 15-20 minutes a day can make a huge difference.
3. Use a Metronome: This will help you develop your timing and rhythm.
4. Record Yourself: This can help you identify areas where you need to improve.
5. Don't Give Up: Learning guitar takes time and effort, but it's totally worth it!

These tips are designed to set you up for success. Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and progress takes time. Be patient with yourself, and celebrate your achievements along the way. Learning to play an instrument is a journey, not a destination. Enjoy the process of learning and growing as a musician.

Also, don't be afraid to ask for help. There are countless resources available online, including tutorials, forums, and online communities. Connecting with other musicians can provide valuable support and encouragement. You can also consider taking lessons from a qualified guitar teacher. A good teacher can provide personalized instruction and help you overcome any challenges you may be facing.

Most importantly, have fun! Learning to play guitar should be an enjoyable experience. Choose songs that you love and that inspire you. When you're having fun, you're more likely to stay motivated and make progress.

Advanced Techniques

Feeling confident with the basics? Let's explore some advanced techniques to spice up your playing!

• Fingerpicking: Instead of strumming, try fingerpicking the chords. This can add a delicate and intricate texture to the song.
• Chord Inversions: Experiment with different voicings of the chords to create smoother transitions and add harmonic interest.
• Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: These techniques can add a subtle embellishment to the melody.
• Improvisation: Once you're comfortable with the chord progression, try improvising your own melodies and fills.

These advanced techniques can add depth and complexity to your playing. Fingerpicking, for example, allows you to highlight individual notes within the chords, creating a more intricate and nuanced sound. Chord inversions involve playing the same chord with different notes in the bass, which can create smoother transitions between chords and add harmonic interest. Hammer-ons and pull-offs are techniques that involve striking or pulling off a string with your fretting hand, adding a subtle embellishment to the melody.

Ultimately, the goal is to express yourself through your playing and connect with the music on a deeper level. Don't be afraid to experiment and push your boundaries. The more you practice and explore, the more confident and creative you'll become.

Conclusion

So there you have it! A comprehensive guide to playing "My Portion You Will Ever Be." Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep strumming, keep singing, and most importantly, keep worshipping! With a little dedication and patience, you'll be playing this beautiful song in no time. Happy playing, and may your music always be a blessing!

Hope this guide helps you guys on your musical journey! Rock on, and keep those chords ringing!