This is Home is a gentle and heartwarming song by Cavetown that reflects on the idea of home being more than just a physical place, but rather the people and experiences that shape our sense of belonging and comfort.
The song’s lyrics are simple yet evocative, with Cavetown’s signature soft vocals and acoustic guitar accompaniment creating a sense of intimacy and reflection. The chorus repeats the line “This is home,” alternating with “You were home,” expressing the profound connection between home and the people who make it so.
this is home ukulele chords
Playing “This is Home” on the ukulele is a great way to experience the song’s gentle and heartwarming message. The chords are relatively easy to learn, and the strumming pattern is simple and repetitive, making it a good choice for beginners.
- 4 chords: C, G, Am, F
- Easy strumming pattern
- Slow and gentle tempo
- Suitable for beginners
- Fingerpicking pattern optional
- Capo on 3rd fret (optional)
- Original key: Am
- Alternate bass strumming
- Play with heart
With a little practice, you’ll be able to play “This is Home” on the ukulele and share its message of love, belonging, and the true meaning of home.
4 chords: C, G, Am, F
The four chords used in “This is Home” on the ukulele are C, G, Am, and F. These chords are all relatively easy to learn, and they create a simple yet effective harmonic foundation for the song.
- C chord
The C chord is a basic open chord that is played with three fingers: the index finger on the first fret of the second string, the middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and the ring finger on the third fret of the fifth string.
- G chord
The G chord is another basic open chord that is played with three fingers: the index finger on the second fret of the sixth string, the middle finger on the third fret of the fifth string, and the ring finger on the third fret of the fourth string.
- Am chord
The Am chord is a barre chord that is played with two fingers: the index finger on the first fret of all six strings, and the ring finger on the third fret of the fourth, fifth, and sixth strings.
- F chord
The F chord is a barre chord that is played with two fingers: the index finger on the first fret of all six strings, and the middle finger on the second fret of the fourth, fifth, and sixth strings.
These four chords are used throughout the song, with the C chord serving as the main tonic chord. The G, Am, and F chords provide harmonic variation and movement, and they help to create the song’s gentle and soothing atmosphere.
Easy strumming pattern
The strumming pattern for “This is Home” on the ukulele is simple and repetitive, making it a good choice for beginners. The basic strumming pattern is down-down-up-down-up-down-down-down.
You can also add a little variation to the strumming pattern by alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes on the first two beats. This creates a more syncopated rhythm that can add some interest to the song.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the strumming pattern:
- Downstroke: Move your strumming hand down across the strings, starting from the sixth string.
- Upstroke: Move your strumming hand up across the strings, starting from the first string.
- Down-down-up-down-up-down-down-down: Repeat this pattern throughout the song.
Once you have mastered the basic strumming pattern, you can experiment with different variations to create your own unique sound.
Here are some tips for strumming “This is Home” on the ukulele:
- Use a light touch and strum near the bridge of the ukulele.
- Keep your strumming hand relaxed and fluid.
- Practice slowly at first until you get the hang of the pattern.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and variations.
Slow and gentle tempo
The tempo of “This is Home” is slow and gentle, which contributes to the song’s calming and soothing atmosphere. The slow tempo also makes it easier for beginners to learn the song, as they have more time to transition between chords and strumming patterns.
- Relaxing and calming
The slow tempo of “This is Home” creates a relaxing and calming atmosphere, which is perfect for winding down after a long day or simply enjoying a moment of peace.
- Easier for beginners
The slow tempo also makes it easier for beginners to learn the song, as they have more time to transition between chords and strumming patterns. This can help to build confidence and make the learning process more enjoyable.
- Expressive and emotional
The slow tempo also allows for more expressive and emotional playing. You can take your time with each chord and strum, and really feel the emotion of the song.
- Versatile
The slow tempo of “This is Home” makes it a versatile song that can be played in a variety of settings. It can be played as a solo piece, or it can be used to accompany singing or other instruments.
Overall, the slow and gentle tempo of “This is Home” is one of the things that makes it such a popular and beloved song. It creates a calming and relaxing atmosphere, and it makes the song easy to learn and play.
Suitable for beginners
One of the great things about “This is Home” on the ukulele is that it is suitable for beginners. The chords are relatively easy to learn, the strumming pattern is simple, and the tempo is slow and gentle. This makes it a great song for beginners to learn and play.
Here are some reasons why “This is Home” is suitable for beginners:
- Easy chords
The four chords used in “This is Home” (C, G, Am, and F) are all relatively easy to learn, even for beginners. These chords are commonly used in many other songs, so learning them will help you to play a variety of songs in the future.
- Simple strumming pattern
The strumming pattern for “This is Home” is also very simple and easy to learn. The basic strumming pattern is down-down-up-down-up-down-down-down, and you can add some variation to the pattern once you have mastered the basics.
- Slow tempo
The slow tempo of “This is Home” makes it easier for beginners to learn the song. You have more time to transition between chords and strumming patterns, which can help to build confidence and make the learning process more enjoyable.
- Great for practicing basic techniques
“This is Home” is a great song for beginners to practice their basic ukulele techniques, such as strumming, chord transitions, and fingerpicking. Once you have mastered the basics, you can start to experiment with more advanced techniques and arrangements.
Overall, “This is Home” is a great song for beginners to learn and play on the ukulele. It is easy to learn, fun to play, and it will help you to develop your basic ukulele skills.
Fingerpicking pattern optional
The fingerpicking pattern for “This is Home” is optional, but it can add a beautiful and intricate layer to the song. The fingerpicking pattern is played on the treble strings (strings 1, 2, and 3), and it uses a combination of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides.
- Adds complexity and interest
The fingerpicking pattern adds complexity and interest to the song, and it can help to create a more dynamic and engaging performance.
- Optional for beginners
The fingerpicking pattern is optional, so beginners do not have to worry about learning it if they are not comfortable with fingerpicking. The song can still be played and enjoyed with just the strumming pattern.
- Great for intermediate and advanced players
The fingerpicking pattern is a great way for intermediate and advanced players to challenge themselves and add some flair to their performance.
- Improvisation and creativity
Once you have mastered the basic fingerpicking pattern, you can start to experiment and improvise with your own variations. This can help you to create a unique and personal arrangement of the song.
Overall, the fingerpicking pattern for “This is Home” is a great way to add complexity and interest to the song. It is optional for beginners, but it is a great way for intermediate and advanced players to challenge themselves and express their creativity.
Capo on 3rd fret ( Burr)
When you play “This is Home” on the ukulele, you can use a capo on the 3rd fret to change the key of the song. This will make the song easier to play and sing, especially if you have a higher voice.
- Easier to play and sing
Using a capo on the 3rd fret will make the song easier to play and sing, especially if you have a higher voice. This is because the capo will raise the pitch of the song, making it more comfortable to sing.
- Different sound
Using a capo will also change the sound of the song. The song will have a brighter and more chiming sound when played with a capo.
- Optional
Using a capo is optional. You can play the song without a capo if you prefer. However, if you find that the song is too difficult to play or sing, you can try using a capo to make it easier.
- Experiment with different capo positions
Once you have mastered the song with the capo on the 3rd fret, you can experiment with different capo positions to create different sounds and effects.
Burr, using a capo on the 3rd fret is a great way to make “This is Home” easier to play and sing. It will also give the song a brighter and more chiming sound. However, using a capo is optional, so you can experiment with different capo positions to create different sounds and effects.
Original key: Am
The original key of “This is Home” is Am. This means that the song is played in the key of A minor. The chords used in the song are all based on the A minor scale.
- Standard tuning
When you play “This is Home” in the original key of Am, you will need to tune your ukulele to standard tuning (GCEA).
- Can be played in other keys
While the original key of the song is Am, you can also play it in other keys. For example, you can use a capo on the 3rd fret to play the song in the key of C.
- Key affects the sound
The key of a song can affect the overall sound and mood of the song. Playing “This is Home” in the original key of Am will give the song a more mellow and introspective sound.
- Experiment with different keys
Once you have mastered the song in the original key, you can experiment with playing it in different keys to create different sounds and effects.
Overall, the original key of “This is Home” is Am. However, you can also play the song in other keys to create different sounds and effects.
Alternate bass strumming
Alternate bass strumming is a strumming technique that can be used to add a more rhythmic and dynamic feel to your ukulele playing. It is a variation of the basic down-down-up-down-up-down strumming pattern, but with the addition of a bass note on the downbeats.
To perform alternate bass strumming, simply alternate between strumming the bass strings (strings 4, 5, and 6) on the downbeats and strumming the treble strings (strings 1, 2, and 3) on the upbeats. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the strumming pattern:
- Downstroke (bass strings): Move your strumming hand down across the bass strings, starting from the sixth string.
- Upstroke (treble strings): Move your strumming hand up across the treble strings, starting from the first string.
- Repeat: Continue alternating between downstrokes on the bass strings and upstrokes on the treble strings.
You can also add variations to the alternate bass strumming pattern by accenting certain beats or by adding in syncopated strums. Experiment with different variations to create your own unique sound.
Here are some tips for alternate bass strumming:
- Use a light touch and strum near the bridge of the ukulele.
- Keep your strumming hand relaxed and fluid.
- Practice slowly at first until you get the hang of the pattern.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and variations.
Play with heart
The most important thing when playing “This is Home” on the ukulele is to play with heart. This means playing with feeling and emotion, and connecting with the lyrics and melody of the song.
- Express yourself
When you play with heart, you are expressing yourself through the music. Don’t be afraid to let your emotions show through your playing.
- Connect with the song
Take the time to really listen to the lyrics and melody of “This is Home.” What does the song mean to you? How does it make you feel? When you connect with the song on a personal level, it will come through in your playing.
- Don’t be perfect
It’s okay if you make mistakes when you’re playing. The most important thing is to play with feeling and emotion. Don’t worry about being perfect, just let the music flow through you.
- Have fun
Playing the ukulele should be fun! So relax, enjoy yourself, and let the music take you away.
When you play “This is Home” with heart, you will create a truly special and meaningful performance. So take your time, connect with the song, and let your emotions shine through.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about “This is Home” on the ukulele:
Question 1: What are the chords used in “This is Home”?
Answer 1: The chords used in “This is Home” are C, G, Am, and F.
Question 2: What is the strumming pattern for “This is Home”?
Answer 2: The basic strumming pattern for “This is Home” is down-down-up-down-up-down-down-down.
Question 3: What tempo is “This is Home” played at?
Answer 3: “This is Home” is played at a slow and gentle tempo.
Question 4: Is “This is Home” suitable for beginners?
Answer 4: Yes, “This is Home” is suitable for beginners. The chords are relatively easy to learn, the strumming pattern is simple, and the tempo is slow.
Question 5: Is there a fingerpicking pattern for “This is Home”?
Answer 5: Yes, there is an optional fingerpicking pattern for “This is Home.” The fingerpicking pattern is played on the treble strings (strings 1, 2, and 3), and it uses a combination of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides.
Question 6: What is the original key of “This is Home”?
Answer 6: The original key of “This is Home” is Am.
Question 7: Can “This is Home” be played in other keys?
Answer 7: Yes, “This is Home” can be played in other keys. For example, you can use a capo on the 3rd fret to play the song in the key of C.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about “This is Home” on the ukulele. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below and I will do my best to answer them.
Now that you know the basics of how to play “This is Home” on the ukulele, here are a few tips to help you improve your playing:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you improve your playing of “This is Home” on the ukulele:
Tip 1: Practice regularly
The best way to improve your ukulele playing is to practice regularly. Try to practice for at least 15 minutes each day, and focus on practicing the chords, strumming pattern, and fingerpicking pattern (if you are using one).
Tip 2: Use a metronome
A metronome can help you to keep a steady tempo while you are playing. This is especially helpful for beginners, as it can help you to develop a consistent strumming pattern.
Tip 3: Listen to the original song
Listening to the original recording of “This is Home” can help you to learn the song’s melody and rhythm. You can also try to sing along with the song to improve your timing and intonation.
Tip 4: Experiment with different strumming patterns and fingerpicking patterns
Once you have mastered the basic strumming pattern and fingerpicking pattern, you can start to experiment with different variations. This can help you to create your own unique sound and style.
These are just a few tips to help you improve your playing of “This is Home” on the ukulele. With practice and dedication, you will be able to play the song beautifully.
Now that you have learned how to play “This is Home” on the ukulele, it’s time to start practicing. With a little bit of effort, you will be able to play the song beautifully and share its message of love, belonging, and the true meaning of home with others.
Conclusion
In this article, we have explored the basics of playing “This is Home” on the ukulele. We have learned the chords, the strumming pattern, the fingerpicking pattern (optional), and some tips to help us improve our playing.
Now that we have learned how to play the song, it is time to reflect on its message. “This is Home” is a song about love, belonging, and the true meaning of home. It is a reminder that home is not just a place, but the people and experiences that shape our lives.
Whether you are playing “This is Home” for yourself or for others, I hope that it brings you a sense of peace and comfort. May it remind you of the people and places that make you feel truly at home.
