RIght hand angle for fingerpicking

Neil replies to questions from our members.
michelew
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Sat Oct 31, 2009 1:55 am

I've been trying to change the angle of my right hand for fingerpicking, from about a 45 degree angled to the floor to my fingers pointing down as much as possible. Neil suggested this in response to the first video posting (AcousticAl's I think).

It's really making my brain hurt and as soon as I stop thinking about it my hand returns to its regular position.

I'm wondering how long I should expect it to take before it becomes the norm. How long has it taken you guys? THose of you who have successfully done it?

And - are there any fast-tracks (practice exercises - other tricks) or is it like everything else...practice, practice, practice...?

Ta

Michele


BigBear
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Sat Oct 31, 2009 2:03 am

Michele- I'm working on this too after about 100 years of doing it wrong! I think the easiest way to think about this is each finger has a string and each each finger strikes its string straight up, not at an angle.

By thinking about the angle of attack and not about bending your wrist just for the sake of bending it, it makes it easier, at least for me, to focus on this new position. But I will admit is it is a constant battle not to fall back into my old bad habit of striking the strings at an angle.

Good luck with this!!

Cheers! :cheer:


michelew
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Location: Sydney, Australia
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Sat Oct 31, 2009 2:07 am

THanks Bear I'll give that a go.


reiver
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Sat Oct 31, 2009 12:56 pm

Michele

I'm trying to get rid of a few old habits too - associated more with my left hand - and I am finding that things are gradually 'improving' (if that's what incorporating the change really is).

My approach is not to try to do too much at a time. So I take up the position that I'm trying to achieve as I start to play. If I slip from that position I try to get back to it slowly - while continuing to play. Dont stop and chastise yourself - just carry on and try to re-adjust. Gradually it will become more natural......but it is a slow process.

r


willem
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Sat Oct 31, 2009 3:14 pm

I think everybody is in a hurry but everything needs time, be aware of the good things when you playing,i mean this in a way of think a little bit about to good way and play your song.....


rcsnydley
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Sat Oct 31, 2009 4:11 pm

Michele - the thing is to be consciously aware of how you are doing it. When you practice constantly stop and check yourself and make adjustments if needed. After a while you will find that you have to make fewer and fewer adjustments.

Ric


michelew
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Location: Sydney, Australia
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Sat Oct 31, 2009 5:18 pm

Thanks guys. And you are right Williem - I am sometimes in too much of a hurry.


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