32a. BASIC RIGHT HAND TECHNIQUE

Although there are many aspects to proper use of the right hand, I am detailing only the basics here.  Sweep picking, “chicken pickin”, fingerstyle techniques such as Travis Picking, etc. are all subjects for consideration in their own right. 

The most important aspect of right hand technique is similar to that of the left–economy of motion. Players should strive for a minimum of extraneous movement. Inexperienced players tend to use big movements of the hand. With a pick, it might look like this:

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Instead, as it should:

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Consistent up and down motion with the pick, regardless of string crossing, should be adhered to always before other picking styles are attempted.

When using the fingers (“classical” technique), the tendency is to pull the hand away from the strings. This is wrong:

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Instead, a firm but gentle push toward the palm, with no move away from the guitar, is best:

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Although the hand should stay relaxed, make sure this simple but important principle of restraint is applied. 

©2012 Jim Greenfield