Re: Learning Aids
Originally Posted by
JGregs
I can play chords easily but I struggle with some of the fundamentals of picking and crosspicking.
Pick direction is extremely important, and one of the most common technical problems I see. Make sure you're playing DOWN on the beat and UP off the beat:
1 + 2 + 3 + 4 +
D U D U D U D U
Next, try playing open strings or scales or arpeggios using this rhythm:
1 + 2 + 3 + 4 +
D r D U D r D U
So you're resting on "1-and" and 3-and". This makes your pick keep moving -- don't let the pick stop and reverse directions when it's resting, just keep moving the same direction as if it was picking a note on that beat.
I hope this helps!
Exploring Classical Mandolin (Berklee Press, 2015)
Progressive Melodies for Mandocello (KDP, 2019) (2nd ed. 2022)
New Solos for Classical Mandolin (Hal Leonard Press, 2020)
2021 guest artist, mandocello: Classical Mandolin Society of America
Bookmarks