RAG MusicGuitar for Beginners
A web magazine to enjoy the guitar even more

[Rapid Progress Over Winter Break] A roundup of recommended practice songs for acoustic guitar beginners!

Many people are probably thinking they want to set aside solid practice time over winter break and make huge progress on guitar.

It’s also the season for year-end and New Year parties, so some of you might be performing a song-and-guitar number as entertainment.

That raises the question: “So what songs should I actually practice?” In this article, we’ve gathered a bunch of Japanese songs we’d love for acoustic guitar beginners to try! We’ll introduce lots of easy-to-play picks, so be sure to check them out.

[Rapid Growth Over Winter Break] A Collection of Recommended Practice Songs for Acoustic Guitar Beginners! (21–30)

horizonback number

Back number is a three-piece rock band that enjoys immense popularity among younger generations for their sentimental lyrics and vocals.

Their fourth digital single, “Suiheisen” (Horizon), was created as a support song for the 2020 All Japan High School Athletic Meet.

Overall, it features many barre chords, which can be challenging for beginner guitarists, but using a capo on the 3rd fret reduces the number of barre chords and makes it easier to try.

The tempo and chord changes are relaxed, so it’s a great choice for a solo acoustic repertoire; however, be aware that a diminished chord appears partway through.

Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya

Where Our Blue Is / Tatsuya Kitani
Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya

Tatsuya Kitani is a singer-songwriter who previously worked as a Vocaloid producer under the name Tanida and has also made his presence known as a bassist.

The title track of his 3rd EP, “Ao no Sumika,” was selected as the opening theme for the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death.

Because it uses many barre chords, placing a capo on the 1st fret is recommended to significantly reduce the difficulty if you find it tough.

However, there are still challenging, quick chord changes such as Fadd9 and D/F#, so take it slow and start at a comfortable pace.

[Rapid Progress Over Winter Break] A Collection of Recommended Practice Songs for Acoustic Guitar Beginners! (31–40)

Let It BeThe Beatles

The Beatles – Let It Be – Let It Be (STEREO REMASTERED)
Let It BeThe Beatles

It’s one of the Beatles’ signature songs, passed down and sung around the world.

The chord progression itself is simple, but the key is to play the “taaan-ta-ta-taaaan” that appears in the intro, the verse, and the chorus—and especially at the end—cleanly.

Whether on piano or guitar, just hearing that part lets you instantly recognize the song!

Lingering Snowiruka

It’s a quintessential Japanese winter song.

The chord progression is simple and there aren’t many types of chords, so it’s quite easy to memorize.

If you boldly set the capo at 5 and play in the key of C, it becomes very easy! To bring out the slightly bittersweet mood of the song, it’s important not to strum too aggressively.

Heroineback number

back number “Heroine” Music Video
Heroineback number

It’s a classic that has become a staple winter love song! The key is G, so there aren’t many barre chords and it’s easy to play.

To bring out the grandeur of the ballad, use strong strumming in the chorus.

Conversely, play the verse softly in pianissimo to create contrast—it will make it sound really good!

Declaration of RomanceKaneko Ayano

Kaneko Ayano – Romance Declaration / Kaneko Ayano – Romance Sengen
Declaration of RomanceKaneko Ayano

An acoustic rock song notable for its delicate guitar sound and powerful vocals.

It’s one of Ayano Kaneko’s signature tracks, released in April 2018 as part of the album “Shukusai” (Celebration).

The lyrics skillfully portray inner restlessness and emotional repression, resonating deeply with listeners.

It has been highly praised by music media and fans alike, and is regarded as a work that showcases Kaneko’s musical maturity.

Why not give it a try as a solo acoustic performance?

threadNakajima Miyuki

Thread – Miyuki Nakajima (Full)
threadNakajima Miyuki

This song is also famous for being covered by Bank Band.

If you play it simply, it’s incredibly easy, but there are a few key chords that pop up here and there.

For example, the diminished chord that appears in the chorus.

It’s just a one-beat accent, but having it makes the song sound much more stylish!