Pickin hand action...

[Timmando]

I am wondering why some pros advise on their dvd's completely different thoughts on the picking hand action, when obviously they are all getting a professional sound. For instance, some say it is all in the wrist in an up and down motion, like a handshake action (Bill Monroe http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NcCgsAMxhs ). For others it is like turning a door knob or shaking off water (Emory Lestor http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RnV-K3FBHUE&feature=related ). Sam Bush http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZizgLMoAIQ and Adam Steffey http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nqd2h7uF7FI rotate at the elbow when playing fast, not the wrist. What are the pros and cons of each or is it just whatever works because any pickin hand way can lead to good mando music?

[Eric C.]

I'll let you know as soon as I get one of those fast pick hands!

[greg_tsam]

This is a can O'worms question. I move mostly from my elbow b/c that's what works best for me. But I have a hand injury/disability but seems to me, elbow is faster and more powerful and wrist is more precise and technical for delicate passages. But, everyone is different and you are you unique..just like everyone else. :)

[ralph johansson]

This is a can O'worms question. I move mostly from my elbow b/c that's what works best for me. But I have a hand injury/disability but seems to me, elbow is faster and more powerful and wrist is more precise and technical for delicate passages. But, everyone is different and you are you unique..just like everyone else. :)

As for Sam Bush an old festival documentary reveals that his technique was perfectly standard in the 70's. He had to cahnge because of an accident. This change of course was facilitated by his ear and previous knowledge of the mandolin.