Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the beautiful hymn, "My Portion You Will Ever Be." This song is a powerful expression of faith and reliance on God, and being able to play it yourself can bring a whole new dimension to your worship experience. Whether you're a beginner just starting to learn chords or an experienced guitarist looking to refine your skills, this guide will provide you with everything you need to play this timeless hymn. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started!

Understanding the Song's Structure

Before we jump into the chords, let's take a quick look at the structure of "My Portion You Will Ever Be." Understanding the song's arrangement will help you play it more smoothly and confidently. Typically, the song follows a verse-chorus structure, which is quite common in hymns and contemporary worship songs. Each verse builds the narrative and expresses longing and devotion, while the chorus serves as a powerful declaration of faith and assurance in God. Recognizing this pattern will not only make learning the chords easier but will also enhance your emotional connection to the song.

• Intro: The intro usually sets the tone of the song. It might consist of a simple instrumental melody or a repeated chord progression that establishes the key and mood.
• Verse: The verses tell the story or convey the message of the song. In "My Portion You Will Ever Be," the verses often speak of seeking God's guidance and finding comfort in His presence. Each verse typically uses a similar chord progression, making it easier to learn.
• Chorus: The chorus is the heart of the song. It's where the main message is emphasized and repeated. In this hymn, the chorus is a powerful affirmation of God being our ultimate portion and satisfaction. The chord progression in the chorus is usually more uplifting and memorable than in the verses.
• Bridge (Optional): Some arrangements may include a bridge, which is a section that provides a contrast to the verses and chorus. It might introduce new chords or a different melody, adding depth to the song. If present, the bridge often leads back into the chorus, building momentum and emotional intensity.
• Outro: The outro brings the song to a peaceful conclusion. It might be a repetition of the chorus, a quiet instrumental fade-out, or a simple chord progression that leaves the listener with a sense of hope and comfort. Recognizing these sections will make learning and playing "My Portion You Will Ever Be" a much more rewarding experience. By understanding the structure, you'll be able to anticipate chord changes and play with greater confidence and expression.

Essential Chords for "My Portion You Will Ever Be"

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the chords! Most versions of "My Portion You Will Ever Be" use a relatively simple set of chords, making it accessible for guitarists of all levels. Knowing these chords will allow you to play the song in its most basic form and gradually add embellishments as you become more comfortable. Here are some of the most common chords you'll encounter:

1. G Major (G): This is a fundamental chord in many songs, and "My Portion You Will Ever Be" is no exception. To play a G major chord, place your middle finger on the 6th string (E string) at the 3rd fret, your index finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 1st string (E string) at the 3rd fret. Strum all six strings.
2. C Major (C): Another essential chord, C major, adds a bright and uplifting quality to the song. To play a C major chord, place your ring finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 3rd fret, your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret, and your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 1st fret. Avoid strumming the 6th string.
3. D Major (D): D major brings a sense of resolution and warmth to the chord progression. To play a D major chord, place your index finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret, your middle finger on the 1st string (E string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 3rd fret. Strum only the four thinnest strings.
4. Em (E minor): E minor adds a touch of melancholy and depth to the song. To play an E minor chord, place your middle finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret and your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret. Strum all six strings.

These four chords – G, C, D, and Em – form the backbone of many versions of "My Portion You Will Ever Be." By mastering these chords, you'll be well on your way to playing the song confidently and beautifully. Of course, there are other variations and chord voicings you can explore as you become more advanced, but these are the essentials to get you started. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords, and you'll find that the song begins to flow naturally.

Chord Progressions and Song Sections

Now that we've covered the essential chords, let's look at how they fit together in the different sections of the song. Understanding the chord progressions will help you anticipate changes and play with greater musicality. Here's a breakdown of typical chord progressions for each section:

• Verse: The verse often follows a simple progression like G - C - G - D. This progression creates a sense of movement and anticipation, leading into the chorus. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what feels most comfortable and expressive. For example, you could try a down-down-up-up-down-up pattern or a more relaxed, fingerpicked approach.
• Chorus: The chorus usually features a more emphatic and uplifting progression, such as C - G - D - G. This progression reinforces the main message of the song and provides a sense of resolution. You might want to strum the chords more forcefully in the chorus to emphasize the emotional intensity. Adding a slight pause before the final G chord can also create a dramatic effect.
• Bridge (Optional): If there's a bridge, it might introduce a different chord, such as Em, to create contrast. A possible progression could be Em - C - G - D. The E minor chord adds a touch of melancholy, while the subsequent chords lead back to the familiar territory of the chorus. Use the bridge as an opportunity to explore different dynamics and textures, perhaps playing more softly or using a different strumming pattern.

Remember, these are just typical chord progressions. Different arrangements may vary, so it's always a good idea to listen closely to the version you're learning and adapt accordingly. Don't be afraid to experiment with different chord voicings and inversions to add your own personal touch to the song. The most important thing is to play with sincerity and expressiveness, letting the music flow through you.

Strumming Patterns and Techniques

Choosing the right strumming pattern can significantly enhance the feel and rhythm of "My Portion You Will Ever Be." While there's no single "correct" pattern, experimenting with different techniques can help you find what sounds best and suits your playing style. Here are a few popular strumming patterns to try:

1. Basic Down-Up Strum: This is the most fundamental strumming pattern and a great starting point for beginners. Simply strum down on the beat and up between the beats (Down-Up-Down-Up). Focus on keeping a steady rhythm and maintaining a consistent sound. This pattern works well for both the verses and the chorus, providing a solid foundation for the song.
2. Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up: This pattern adds a bit more syncopation and groove to the song. Strum down twice on the first beat, then up-up-down-up on the remaining beats. This pattern works particularly well in the verses, adding a subtle rhythmic complexity. Be sure to emphasize the down strums to maintain a strong sense of pulse.
3. Fingerpicking: For a more delicate and intimate feel, try fingerpicking the chords. You can use a simple pattern like alternating the bass note with the higher strings or create your own unique arrangement. Fingerpicking can add a beautiful texture to the song, especially in the verses and the intro.

In addition to these basic patterns, you can also incorporate techniques like palm muting, which involves resting the side of your palm lightly on the strings to create a muted, percussive sound. This can add a nice contrast to the song, especially in the chorus. Experiment with different dynamics, varying the volume and intensity of your strumming to create a more expressive performance. Remember, the goal is to find a strumming pattern that feels natural and enhances the emotional impact of the song.

Tips for Beginners

Learning to play "My Portion You Will Ever Be" can be a rewarding experience, especially for beginners. Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

• Start Slow: Don't try to rush the process. Begin by practicing the chords slowly and deliberately, focusing on accuracy and clean transitions. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo.
• Practice Chord Transitions: Smooth chord transitions are essential for playing the song fluidly. Practice moving between the chords until you can do so without hesitation. Use a metronome to help you maintain a steady rhythm.
• Use a Chord Chart: Having a chord chart in front of you can be a helpful reminder, especially when you're first learning the song. You can find chord charts online or create your own.
• Listen to the Song: Listen to different versions of "My Portion You Will Ever Be" to get a feel for the rhythm, dynamics, and overall arrangement. This will help you internalize the song and play it with greater expression.
• Be Patient: Learning guitar takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't sound perfect right away. Just keep practicing, and you'll gradually improve.

With patience and persistence, you'll be able to play "My Portion You Will Ever Be" with confidence and skill. Remember to enjoy the process and let the music speak to your heart.

Advanced Techniques and Variations

For those who are more experienced guitarists, there are many ways to add your own flair and creativity to "My Portion You Will Ever Be." Here are a few advanced techniques and variations to explore:

• Chord Inversions: Experiment with different inversions of the chords to create new voicings and textures. For example, you could play a C major chord with the G note in the bass (C/G) or a D major chord with the A note in the bass (D/A). These inversions can add a subtle harmonic richness to the song.
• Adding Passing Chords: Passing chords are chords that are inserted between the main chords to create a smoother transition. For example, you could add a Dm chord between the G and C chords in the verse progression. This can add a touch of sophistication to the song.
• Arpeggios: Instead of strumming the chords, try playing them as arpeggios, picking each note individually. This can create a more delicate and intricate sound, especially in the verses. Experiment with different fingerpicking patterns to find what sounds best.
• Improvisation: Don't be afraid to improvise and add your own personal touches to the song. You could add fills between the chords or create a solo section. The key is to stay true to the spirit of the song while adding your own unique voice.

By exploring these advanced techniques and variations, you can take your playing of "My Portion You Will Ever Be" to the next level. Remember to listen to different versions of the song and draw inspiration from other guitarists. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to playing "My Portion You Will Ever Be" on the guitar. From understanding the song's structure to mastering the essential chords and exploring advanced techniques, you now have the tools you need to bring this beautiful hymn to life. Remember, the most important thing is to play with sincerity and passion, allowing the music to speak to your heart and to others. Whether you're playing for personal worship or sharing the song with your community, may your music be a blessing and a testament to your faith. Keep practicing, keep exploring, and never stop growing as a musician. Happy playing!