How to Play 'Aperture' by Harry Styles - Guitar Chords Tutorial

Feb 16
2 min read

"Aperture" by Harry Styles is a dreamy, atmospheric track that showcases his artistic growth as a musician. With its lush chord progressions and emotional depth, this song is a fantastic piece to learn on guitar. Let's dive into the chords and techniques you'll need!

🎸 Chords You'll Need

This song features some rich, open chords that create that signature Harry Styles sound:

A Major (A)
E Major (E)
F#m (F sharp minor)
D Major (D)
Bm (B minor)
C#m (C sharp minor)

🎵 Verse Chord Progression

The verse has a gentle, flowing quality:

A - E | F#m - D | A - E | F#m - D

Let the chords ring out and create space between transitions. Harry's music often has an airy, open feel – embrace the silence between strums.

🎤 Pre-Chorus

The pre-chorus builds anticipation:

Bm - C#m | D - E

🌟 Chorus Chord Progression

The chorus opens up with emotional power:

D - A | E - F#m | D - A | E

This is where you can really let loose! Strum with more intensity and let your voice soar along with the chords.

🌉 Bridge

The bridge provides a beautiful contrast:

F#m - D | A - E | Bm - D | E

✋ Strumming Pattern

For that dreamy, indie-pop feel, use this flowing pattern:

Down - Down Up - Up Down Up (D D U U D U)

Tip: Keep your strumming light and airy in the verses, then add more weight and attack in the chorus. The contrast creates dynamics that make the song come alive!

💡 Tips for Playing This Song

Practice F#m and C#m – These barre chords are essential. Use the 2nd fret barre position for F#m and 4th fret for C#m.
Use a capo on fret 2 – This can help match the original recording and make some chords easier to play.
Experiment with arpeggios – Instead of strumming, try picking individual notes for a more intimate, atmospheric sound.
Add reverb if using an amp – A touch of reverb captures that spacious, dreamy quality of Harry's production.
Focus on dynamics – Harry's songs breathe. Play quietly in soft moments and build to powerful crescendos.
Feel the emotion – This song is about vulnerability and openness. Let that emotion flow through your playing!

"Aperture" is all about opening up and letting the light in – both lyrically and musically. Take your time learning it, enjoy the journey, and soon you'll be playing this beautiful song with confidence. Keep strumming! 🎶📸