The Trooper Guitar Lessson - Introduction
Introduction
Tune into a guitar lesson on the classic heavy metal song "The Trooper" brought to you by Torrins.com, led by our expert instructor, Bobby Koeble. This song by the English heavy metal band Iron Maiden was released in 1983, and a live version of the song was issued in 2005.
Fun Fact: "The Trooper" by Iron Maiden was inspired by the famous Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War in 1854. The song’s lyrics are based on Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s poem of the same name, which describes the bravery and tragic loss of British cavalry who were misled into a deadly Russian artillery ambush. The intense galloping rhythm of the song reflects the chaos and urgency of the battlefield charge.
Bobby breaks down this classic song lesson into the following parts to ensure a smooth learning experience for learners:
Introduction
Intro Riff
Main Riff & Verse
Chorus & Song Arrangement
Solo 1- Part 1 & 2
Rhythm for Solos
Solo 2
Solo 2 using Whammy Bars
Discussion & Conclusion
Trooper with Backing Track
Bobby teaches this song in the key of E, Em, and Am (different keys are used in different sections). Some of the chords that make up this song are G, F, D, and the E power chord. Check out the complete song lesson to know the rest of the chords.
Chords Used in The Trooper Guitar Lesson
Most of the song is in the key of E or E minor with a 4/4 time signature. Bobby plays the song in standard tuning.
The chorus uses a D chord followed by a low E power chord.
The solos are in the key of A minor and use chords like G, and F, along with others.
There are harmony parts in the intro and main riffs, with techniques like pull-offs and whammy bars used in the solos.
Strumming Pattern
The song follows a fast-paced, galloping rhythm—a signature Iron Maiden style.
Bobby breaks down the strumming pattern and offers options for handling the harmony in the intro.
Beginners can start with a simple downstroke rhythm, while more advanced players can work on refining the galloping feel.
Song Structure
This song follows a clear, repeating structure:
Intro Riff – Fast-paced harmony part (repeats 4 times)
Main Riff and Verse – Finger placements and notes explained in detail
Chorus – D chord for two measures, followed by a low E power chord
Main (Harmony) Riff
2nd Verse – Slight variation with galloping rhythm
Chorus
Solo 1 and Solo 2 – Key of A minor, includes whammy bar technique
Main Harmony Riff
3rd Verse
Outro – Same as the intro
Improvisation Techniques
The solos are played in A minor.
Solo 2 includes a whammy bar technique for added depth and expression.
Bobby ends the lesson by playing along with a backing track—a great way to practice and refine your playing.
FAQs – The Trooper Guitar Lesson
Q1. Is this song suitable for beginners?
It’s more suited for intermediate players due to the fast-paced rhythm and advanced solo work.
Q2. What’s the key challenge in this song?
The galloping rhythm and smooth chord transitions require precision and practice.
Q3. Do I need a special tuning?
No, the song is played in standard tuning.
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