Discuss the Guitar lesson: Guitar Pick Hand Study

[ksbellingham]

Yes, I was going to make the same comment about pick angle.

[Joel]

Well, I’ve practiced with holding my pick the right way and it’s definitely something that will just take time getting use to again. I can play fast and precise when holding it the wrong way but then I feel clumsy doing it the right way so it’s hard to consistently practice with the right way. Thanks for your help!

[camclark04]

Love this lesson. I just came back to it when I’m questioning my existential musical existence. lol. I get lazy sometimes and need a recalibrate my picking hand.

[culbertsonadam]

Is it forming a bad habit or bad practice to use a thumb pick with the guitar? I am learning banjo also and it just feels better.

[BanjoBen]

Lots of great guitar players use a thumbpick, but it’s primarily a different style than bluegrass flatpicking. I’ve known just a couple folks who could legit mimic the bluegrass flatpicking sound with a thumbpick, and not many even try.

Personally I’ve tried, but the lack of “give” in a thumbpick makes it hard for me to strum the way I can with a flatpick.

[camclark04]

watch Tommy Emmanuel play with a thumb pick Chet Atkins style. Its incredible. He’s my guitar hero. I met him at Old Settlers Music Festival a couple years ago. It’s even more impressive in person.

He explains his technique here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xm2ODiNUhac

[CBoling]

For someone just learning to use the wrist in the way you teach, is it normal for me to feel a little out of control as I strum? Will this improve with time and practice?

[BanjoBen]

Yes, and yes

[CBoling]

Thanks!