Inconsistent Right Hand Technique – Mixing economy and double picking
Introduction
When it comes to guitar playing, the right hand technique plays a crucial role in achieving precision, speed, and fluidity. However, some guitarists may struggle with an inconsistent right hand technique when mixing economy and double picking. In this article, we will delve into the challenges posed by this combination and explore potential solutions.
The Different Approaches to Right Hand Technique
There are several approaches to right hand technique in guitar playing, each with its own characteristics and benefits. These include:
- Rest Stroke: A technique where the picking hand rests on the next string after plucking a note, providing stability and control.
- Alternate Picking: A consistent technique where the player always uses the same picking motion with the right hand, alternating between downward and upward strokes.
- Economy Picking: A technique that combines alternate picking and sweep picking to optimize efficiency and minimize unnecessary motion.
- Hybrid Picking: A technique that combines pick and fingerstyle playing, allowing for greater versatility and the ability to play multiple strings simultaneously.
The Challenge of Inconsistent Right Hand Technique
Mixing economy picking and alternate picking can result in a combination of techniques that may lead to inconsistency in a guitarist’s playing. This inconsistency can manifest as a lack of uniformity in picking approach, which can hinder the execution of musical phrases and impede progress.
The Importance of Developing a Consistent Technique
Having a consistent right hand technique is crucial for guitarists, as it contributes to clean and accurate playing. While some guitarists, such as Paul Gilbert, have mastered alternate picking technique, changing one’s technique completely requires significant effort and practice. It is essential to carefully consider the decision to change and approach it with patience and perseverance.
Approaches to Overcoming Inconsistent Technique
To address the issue of inconsistent right hand technique when mixing economy and double picking, guitarists can employ various strategies:
- Targeted Exercises: Practicing single string exercises, such as Yngwie sixes, can help improve the comfort and proficiency of the picking motion. By focusing on a single string, guitarists can refine their technique and develop a solid foundation before moving on to more complex phrases.
- Gradual Integration: Instead of completely overhauling the technique, guitarists can gradually incorporate new techniques into their playing. This allows for a smoother transition and reduces the risk of developing further inconsistencies.
Conclusion
Achieving a consistent and efficient right hand technique is a common goal for guitarists. When mixing economy and double picking, the potential for inconsistency arises, requiring careful consideration and practice. By incorporating targeted exercises and gradually integrating new techniques, guitarists can work towards a more unified and effective right hand technique.
Sources:
- Music Stack Exchange: “Inconsistent Right Hand Technique – Mixing Economy and Double Picking” (https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/7390/inconsistent-right-hand-technique-mixing-economy-and-double-picking)
- Jazz Guitar Forum: “Inconsistent Right Hand Technique – Mixing Economy and Double Picking” (https://www.jazzguitar.be/forum/guitar-technique/24633-inconsistent-right-hand-technique-mixing-economy-double-picking.html)
- Troy Grady Forum: “My Picking is Inconsistent – Technique Critique” (https://forum.troygrady.com/t/my-picking-is-inconsistent/52440)
FAQs
Introduction
When it comes to guitar playing, the right hand technique plays a crucial role in achieving precision, speed, and fluidity. However, some guitarists may struggle with an inconsistent right hand technique when mixing economy and double picking. In this article, we will delve into the challenges posed by this combination and explore potential solutions.
The Different Approaches to Right Hand Technique
There are several approaches to right hand technique in guitar playing, each with its own characteristics and benefits. These include:
- Rest Stroke: A technique where the picking hand rests on the next string after plucking a note, providing stability and control.
- Alternate Picking: A consistent technique where the player always uses the same picking motion with the right hand, alternating between downward and upward strokes.
- Economy Picking: A technique that combines alternate picking and sweep picking to optimize efficiency and minimize unnecessary motion.
- Hybrid Picking: A technique that combines pick and fingerstyle playing, allowing for greater versatility and the ability to play multiple strings simultaneously.
The Challenge of Inconsistent Right Hand Technique
Mixing economy picking and alternate picking can result in a combination of techniques that may lead to inconsistency in a guitarist’s playing. This inconsistency can manifest as a lack of uniformity in picking approach, which can hinder the execution of musical phrases and impede progress.
The Importance of Developing a Consistent Technique
Having a consistent right hand technique is crucial for guitarists, as it contributes to clean and accurate playing. While some guitarists, such as Paul Gilbert, have mastered alternate picking technique, changing one’s technique completely requires significant effort and practice. It is essential to carefully consider the decision to change and approach it with patience and perseverance.
Approaches to Overcoming Inconsistent Technique
To address the issue of inconsistent right hand technique when mixing economy and double picking, guitarists can employ various strategies:
- Targeted Exercises: Practicing single string exercises, such as Yngwie sixes, can help improve the comfort and proficiency of the picking motion. By focusing on a single string, guitarists can refine their technique and develop a solid foundation before moving on to more complex phrases.
- Gradual Integration: Instead of completely overhauling the technique, guitarists can gradually incorporate new techniques into their playing. This allows for a smoother transition and reduces the risk of developing further inconsistencies.
Can I mix economy picking and alternate picking in my playing?
Yes, it is possible to incorporate both techniques in your playing. However, it may require additional practice and focus to ensure a consistent and smooth transition between the two.
Can inconsistent right hand technique affect my playing?
Yes, inconsistent right hand technique can impact your playing by hindering the execution of musical phrases and causing inconsistencies in sound and timing.
Should I completely change my right hand technique to overcome inconsistency?
Completely changing your right hand technique requires significant effort and practice. It is important to carefully consider the decision and approach it with patience and perseverance.
How can targeted exercises help improve my right hand technique?
Targeted exercises, such as single string exercises, can help improve the comfort and proficiency of the picking motion. They allow you to focus on refining your technique and developing a solid foundation before tackling more complex phrases.
What is the benefit of gradual integration when mixing techniques?
Gradual integration allows for a smoother transition between techniques, reducing the risk of developing further inconsistencies. It gives you time to adapt and refine your playing without overwhelming yourself with too many changes at once.
Conclusion
Achieving a consistent and efficient right hand technique is a common goal for guitarists. When mixing economy and double picking, the potential for inconsistency arises, requiring careful consideration and practice. By incorporating targeted exercises and gradually integrating new techniques, guitarists can work towards a more unified and effective right hand technique.