Practice Tips

Go slow and try to get the notes as even as possible. You’ll probably find that the most difficult parts to keep even are 1) placing your fingers back on the strings, and 2) when you change chords. In the beginning you’ll need to work on the right-hand first and get comfortable with the motion of plucking the strings and replacing the fingers. Little by little with practice it will become one fluid motion.

It will be easier to focus on changing chords smoothly once the right-hand is more coordinated. Be patient with yourself… but persistent. Keep coming back at it a little bit each day. Check in with your right hand regularly to make sure you’re staying relaxed. Stop and shake out your hand if you need to… then start up again.

Persistence Is The Key

There was a time when I could just barely imagine what it would be like to play simple fingerpicking patterns without struggling and straining. Now I can play complex fingerstyle patterns without even thinking about my right hand. It’s just a habit they came from years of practice and playing the guitar.

I want you to know that you can do this just as well as I can. You do need to make a choice somewhere along the way to just keep coming back at it… persistence!. What seems difficult gives way to repetition.

The tips that I’ve given you and the method for practicing are meant to shorten the process. I want to give you the benefit of my experience. I believe you can get to the same place quicker than I did if you take advantage of my experience.

But whether slow or quick if you are persistent you will play beautiful fingerpicking patterns on the guitar and not only impress your friends and family but have a wonderful time doing it.