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GMC Forum _ PRACTICE ROOM _ Alternate Picking

Posted by: Xranthoius May 22 2007, 11:07 PM

Well i've been playing the guitar for one year now, i just found this site on Saturday, and i realize that ive only been picking downwards, which holds me back from speed picking. How can I stop my habit and alternate pick instead

Posted by: stratman33 May 23 2007, 12:07 AM

I have the same problem.I only alternate pick to play really fast, but i never use it besides doing that.I try to alternate pick to the beat, but my hand moves uncontrolably fast.I could use some help with this to.

Posted by: Ryan May 23 2007, 01:13 AM

lol...thats easy........PLAY VERY SLOWLY..AND SLOWLY MOVE UP IN SPEED........and concentrate on what yoru right hand is doing..tahts reallyt eh only way guys!!!

Posted by: Aaron May 23 2007, 01:18 AM

ive been playin for a year as well and i broke my habit by playing every song with alternate picking and with a metronome. and aslo incorprate wut ryan said cuz you cant jus expect to play fast right away

Posted by: Igorrr May 23 2007, 02:23 AM

Also alternate picking does not mean always up and down strokes no matter the notes. Alternate means that usually you play 8 notes where the downstrokes are on the beats (when you count the full number) and the upstrokes of the beat (when you say 'and'). This is to keep your hand in the fluid up and down motion no matter the syncopation.

Now when playing metal or any music up to speed you'll actually start playing 8 notes only downstrokes and start alternating only 16th notes.
For instance the beginning riff of Master of Puppets is meant to be played all downstrokes!!