Hi Everyone! (Not a strictly GW question, maybe other users could jump in here)
In the last few months I've begun to use a pick for the first time in my guitar journey. I have played fingerstyle and the odd time with a thumb pick. Admittedly, as expected, I am still quite awkward using it.
Finally after months of trying different ways to hold the pick I think I've found one that is comfortable enough. Also, finally found a pick I like to use. I started off with thin picks for whatever reason and never felt good with them nor did the guitar sound nice. I've started using thick picks 1mm or more and enjoy that thickness and really, really love the jazz 3 picks.
Right now I've been training with a metronome at 50 bpm and doing 1/4, 1/8, triplet and 1/16 notes on single strings and across string sets. And I plan to start rhythm strumming using a variety of times and feels (i.e. variety of strumming patterns, dynamics and swing, among others). And I'm starting to learn a one song with a pick that incorporates strumming and single string licks and arpeggios.
What else might you recommend to get better at using a pick with some systematic exercises? Also, what's your go to pick, thickness, material, etc?
Thanks for reading and have a nice weekend!
In regards to technique, I’ll repeat Tomo’s most common comments: 1. Hold the pick very lightly and expose half of it below your fingers. 2. Use minimal movement when alternating across the strings to minimize excess width which is slower and less efficient. 3. Most important, whatever rhythm figure you’re practicing, GO SLOW so you can observe effectively 1- 2 - 3 above.
Practice swing groove strumming everyday for 5 minutes, be sure to emphasize the up stroke as much as down strokes.
Gains in proper technique come from going slow, which I find difficult because the tendency is always to get to playing speed. Go slow and dont worry about playing speed yet.
Cheers Ken!
I've tried to follow some of his tips and I find that the pick keeps turning and after about 10-12 strums the pick is on the side edge instead of the tip. I can't seem to find a way to keep it from turning. I've adjusted my thumb placement, pressure, type of pick etc. and I still can't keep it straight.
Bear in mind I've just started using a pick in the last month or so and am very new, so I hope I see improvements but it's so frustrating.
I'll double check the tips and yeah, slow right down to make observations like the chromatic challenge.
Thanks!