Polka-hop chords
Chords only on the “ands” in a quick two-beat bar: the “pah” of a polka. One of the syncopated chord patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your right hand over a C chord. You need G (thumb, 1), C (middle finger, 3) and E (little finger, 5).
Count and play
Count "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &" (say "and" for &). Play G, C and E together on 1&, 2&, 3& and 4&.
Move it with the chords
When the chord changes to G, the same rhythm moves to the notes of G: D, G and B. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Polka-hop chords on piano?
Chords only on the “ands” in a quick two-beat bar: the “pah” of a polka. Chords only on the off-beats: skank and swing comping. Musicians call it offbeat chords, 1&, 2& (2/4).
Is Polka-hop chords hard to play?
It is a beginner pattern. Play it with your right hand alone at 60% speed until it feels steady, then add the other hand.
Which songs use Polka-hop chords?
Impossible by James Arthur, Hosanna by Kirk Franklin and This Town by Niall Horan use Polka-hop chords. The songs on this page all use it in the right hand, the most played first.