Right Hand Technique 101: Picks, Pick Grip, Philosophy, Tension, Hand-Synching, Speed
Okay folks, here we go. This video has been requested a bunch by you all and this is my first attempt at getting you some answers. Technique is a wormhole when it comes to bluegrass. So much of this stuff I’m teaching is dependent on technique and more than just technique, GOOD TECHNIQUE. I have some thoughts on the subject.
In this video I cover, pick selection, pick grip, tone, picking placement (relation to the soundhole), tension, hand-synching, practice routines for speed building, and so much more. It’s kind of a mega info-dump so strap in.
Please, please keep track of your questions, especially the ones that this video will inevitably generate. We can get those questions answered in the live Q+A in March or in another video or even in the forum.
At the end of the day, the overarching message of this video is: there is no one technique when it comes to bluegrass. The best technique is the one that works for you. The goal of adopting a particular technique is twofold, 1) it helps you achieve the sound you want and, 2) it does not cause undue stress on your body. In turn this requires that you do two things: 1) have a clear understanding of what you want to sound like and 2) the ability to reflect on tension in your body.
Okay, I don’t want to give the whole video away. Watch it.