Sexta-Feira (Fred E Fabricio): Cifra Simplificada!
Alright, music lovers! Ever wanted to strum along to Fred e Fabricio's catchy tune, "Sexta-Feira," but got tangled in complicated chords? Well, fret no more! This guide provides a simplified cifra (chord chart) so you can easily play this Brazilian hit. We're breaking it down to make it accessible for everyone, from beginners picking up their first guitar to seasoned players wanting a quick and easy version.
Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into the chords, let's cover some essential ground. A "cifra" is essentially a chord chart, a shorthand way of writing down the chords for a song. Instead of writing out full musical notation, cifras use letters to represent chords: A for A major, B for B major, C for C major, and so on. They might also include symbols like "m" for minor, "7" for a seventh chord, or "#" for sharp. Getting familiar with these symbols is the first step to reading and understanding any cifra.
When you see a cifra, it's typically placed above the lyrics where that chord change occurs. This tells you when to switch from one chord to another as you sing or play along. The rhythm isn't usually indicated in the cifra itself; that's something you'll pick up by listening to the song. Pay close attention to the original recording of "Sexta-Feira" to get a feel for the timing and strumming pattern.
Furthermore, remember that different versions of cifras can exist. Some might be more complex, using barre chords or variations, while others, like the one we're focusing on, aim for simplicity. The key is to find a version that suits your skill level and allows you to enjoy playing the song. If you're a beginner, don't be afraid to start with the most basic chords and gradually work your way up to more challenging voicings.
Simplified Chords for "Sexta-Feira"
Let's get to the heart of the matter: the simplified chords you can use to play "Sexta-Feira." While the exact chords might vary depending on the key the song is played in, we'll use a common and accessible key for guitarists. The most common chords used will be G, C, D, and Em. With just these chords, you'll be able to play through the entire song.
- G (G Major): A foundational chord, G major is often one of the first chords guitarists learn. It's bright, cheerful, and used in countless songs. To play it, place your middle finger on the 6th string, 3rd fret; your index finger on the 5th string, 2nd fret; and your ring finger on the 1st string, 3rd fret. Strum all six strings.
- C (C Major): Another essential chord. Place your index finger on the 2nd string, 1st fret; your middle finger on the 4th string, 2nd fret; and your ring finger on the 5th string, 3rd fret. Strum from the 5th string downwards.
- D (D Major): A vibrant and versatile chord. Place your index finger on the 3rd string, 2nd fret; your middle finger on the 1st string, 2nd fret; and your ring finger on the 2nd string, 3rd fret. Strum from the 4th string downwards.
- Em (E minor): Adds a touch of melancholy and depth. Place your middle finger on the 5th string, 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 4th string, 2nd fret. Strum all six strings.
Chord Progression
While the entire song structure may have some variations, a significant part of the song follows a repeating chord progression. This makes it easier to memorize and play along. Look for this simple progression: G - D - Em - C. This means you'll play G, then D, then Em, then C, and then repeat the cycle.
Listen carefully to the song to identify where these chord changes occur in relation to the lyrics. This is where your ear training comes in handy. Even if you don't get it perfect at first, keep practicing, and you'll gradually develop a better sense of timing and chord placement.
Strumming Pattern Suggestions
The strumming pattern is just as important as the chords themselves. A simple and effective strumming pattern for "Sexta-Feira" could be Down, Down, Up, Down, Up. This pattern provides a good balance between rhythm and ease of play. You can modify it slightly to fit the feel of different sections of the song. For instance, you might emphasize the downstrokes during the verses and add more upstrokes during the chorus to create a sense of energy.
Experiment with different strumming patterns to see what sounds best to you. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, and the most important thing is to find a pattern that feels comfortable and natural. You could also try listening to live versions of the song to see how Fred e Fabricio themselves approach the strumming.
Putting It All Together
Now that we have the chords and a suggested strumming pattern, let's put it all together! Start by playing the chord progression (G - D - Em - C) slowly and repeatedly until you can switch between the chords smoothly. This is where muscle memory comes into play. The more you practice, the easier it will become to transition between chords without hesitation.
Once you're comfortable with the chord changes, try playing along with the song. Start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you improve. Don't worry if you make mistakes; everyone does when they're learning. The key is to keep practicing and to focus on enjoying the process.
Tips for Beginners
Learning to play a new song can be challenging, especially if you're a beginner. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
- Start Slow: There's no need to rush. Begin by practicing the chords and strumming pattern at a slow tempo. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
- Use a Metronome: A metronome can help you develop your timing and rhythm. Start with a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you improve.
- Practice Regularly: Even short, regular practice sessions are more effective than long, infrequent ones. Aim to practice for at least 15-20 minutes each day.
- Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you're struggling with a particular chord or technique, don't hesitate to ask a friend, teacher, or online community for help.
- Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to the original recording of "Sexta-Feira." This will help you understand the rhythm, phrasing, and overall feel of the song.
- Break It Down: If the song seems overwhelming, break it down into smaller sections. Focus on mastering one section at a time before moving on to the next.
- Have Fun: Learning to play music should be enjoyable. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Just keep practicing and remember to have fun!
Beyond the Basics: Adding Your Own Flair
Once you've mastered the basic chords and strumming pattern, feel free to add your own personal touch to "Sexta-Feira." Try experimenting with different strumming patterns, adding embellishments to the chords, or even transposing the song to a different key that better suits your vocal range. The possibilities are endless!
You could also try playing around with different voicings of the chords. For example, instead of playing a standard G major chord, you could try playing a G major 7th or a G major 9th. These variations will add color and depth to your playing. Additionally, try adding some simple fills or lead lines between the vocal phrases. This will give your performance a more polished and professional sound.
Exploring Other Versions
While this guide focuses on a simplified version of "Sexta-Feira," it's worth exploring other versions as well. You might find that some versions use different chords or arrangements that you prefer. There are countless resources available online, including chord charts, tutorials, and covers.
Check out different YouTube tutorials for "Sexta-Feira" to see how other guitarists approach the song. Some tutorials might offer alternative fingerings, strumming patterns, or even simplified versions for beginners. Experiment with different approaches and find what works best for you.
Final Thoughts
Learning to play "Sexta-Feira" by Fred e Fabricio is a fun and rewarding experience. With these simplified chords and tips, you'll be strumming along in no time. Remember to practice regularly, listen carefully to the song, and most importantly, have fun! So grab your guitar, gather your friends, and get ready to celebrate "Sexta-Feira" in style!
Keep on strumming, and happy playing!