Expressive Picking
- Jonathan
- Mar 31, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: Dec 17, 2024
Hi there! Welcome to Sheffield Guitar Studio. My name is Jonathan, and I’m here to help you become the guitar player you’ve always wanted to be. Today, we’re exploring how to add variety to your picking techniques. A pick provides more than just a sharp attack and a rich tone—there’s a whole world of possibilities you can unlock with the right approach. Let’s dive into three ways you can add variety to your picking.
Holding the Pick Correctly
First, let’s ensure you’re holding the pick properly. While it may seem basic, how you grip your pick can significantly impact your control and tone. Here’s the best way to hold it:
- Place the pick so the point sticks out at a right angle to your thumb.
- Your index finger should align with the pick, pointing downward.
- Keep your grip firm but relaxed. Avoid gripping too tightly, as it reduces flexibility and comfort.
Some players prefer an open hand, while others opt for a closed fist. Choose what feels most natural to you, but remember to avoid awkward grips that compromise control.
Varying Picking Dynamics
How hard you strike the strings can dramatically change your tone. Using an electric guitar with a slightly overdriven sound, you’ll notice that softer picking produces a mellow tone, while harder picking adds bite and volume. High-quality amplifiers or plugins respond to these dynamics, enhancing your musical expression. Experiment with your picking strength to highlight certain notes and add a dynamic range to your playing.
Exploring Picking Locations
The point where you strike the strings also affects tone. For instance:
- Picking near the bridge produces a brighter, mid-range-heavy sound.
- Picking closer to the neck results in a warmer, mellower tone.
On acoustic guitars, these tonal shifts are more pronounced. Use this technique to suit the mood of the piece you’re playing, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different picking positions.
Hybrid Picking
Hybrid picking combines traditional pick use with your fingers to create tonal variety. Use the pick for the primary attack and your fingers to pluck additional strings. This approach allows you to blend the sharper tone of the pick with the softer, more natural sound of fingerpicking. It’s a versatile technique used by guitarists like Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top and many others.
By combining these techniques, you can significantly expand your tonal palette and enhance your playing. Practice each method and experiment to find what works best for your style. Check out your favorite guitarists to see how they incorporate these techniques into their playing.
For additional exercises and demonstrations, visit my website. I’ve prepared a free video lesson to help you practice and apply these techniques right away. No signup is required—it’s my gift to you. If you’ve enjoyed this lesson, leave a comment, give it a like, and share it with your fellow guitarists. Let me know what you’d like to learn next. Until then, happy playing!
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