Alternate Picking:
Alternate picking is a fundamental guitar-playing technique where you alternate between downstrokes (▼) and upstrokes (▲) (in TABS) to strike the strings.
This method creates a smooth, rhythmic flow and allows for greater speed and precision compared to only using downstrokes.
It’s a versatile technique, used in genres like rock, metal, jazz, and classical, and it forms the backbone of fast, intricate playing.
How Alternate Picking Works
At its core, alternate picking is about consistency and economy of motion. Here’s how it works:
Downstroke (▼): The pick moves downward, striking the string.
Upstroke (▲): The pick moves upward, striking the string.
Repeat: Alternate these motions in a continuous, fluid manner.
This up-and-down pattern minimizes hand movement and keeps you in rhythm, making it ideal for fast passages and complex riffs.
Why Alternate Picking Is Important for Some
Speed: By alternating strokes, you avoid the extra time it takes to reset your hand for consecutive downstrokes.
Efficiency: It reduces hand fatigue and ensures smoother transitions between notes.
Versatility: Alternate picking is used in countless guitar styles, from shredding solos to delicate melodies.
Where You’ll Witness Alternate Picking
You can find alternate picking in lots of places, but it’s especially prominent in:
Rock and Metal: Listen to Kirk Hammett’s solos in Metallica or Paul Gilbert’s insane speed runs.
Jazz: Players like Pat Metheny use alternate picking for fluid improvisations.
Classical Guitar: Transcriptions of violin pieces like Paganini’s Caprices often require precise alternate picking.
The Symbols: ▼ and ▲
In guitar notation or tabs, downstrokes and upstrokes are often represented by symbols:
Downstroke (▼): A downward motion of the pick.
Upstroke (▲): An upward motion of the pick.
These symbols are crucial for understanding picking patterns, especially in fast or complex sections.
How to Practice Alternate Picking
Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this technique:
1. As Always, Start Slow
Begin with a simple scale or riff and focus on alternating your strokes. Use a metronome to stay in time.
2. Use a Metronome
Set a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you get comfortable. This builds muscle memory and ensures accuracy.
3. Play Scales and Exercises
Practice common scales like the pentatonic or major scale, picking each note alternately.
4. Practice String Changes
Moving between strings while alternate picking can be tricky. Start with two-string exercises to get used to the motion.
5. Apply It to Songs
Try songs that rely on alternate picking, like Iron Maiden’s The Trooper or Eric Johnson’s Cliffs of Dover.
Famous Alternate Picking Guitarists
Some legendary players have mastered alternate picking to achieve blazing speed and intricate phrasing:
- Paul Gilbert: Known for his clean, rapid picking and mind-blowing solos in Mr. Big and Racer X.
- Al Di Meola: A jazz-fusion virtuoso who combines alternate picking with incredible rhythmic precision.
- Steve Morse: His technical prowess shines in the Dixie Dregs and Deep Purple.
- John Petrucci: Dream Theater’s guitarist demonstrates insane alternate picking in progressive metal solos.
Common Challenges (And How to Overcome Them)
1. String Hopping
Switching between strings can cause hiccups. Use exercises that focus on two- or three-string patterns to improve.
2. Inconsistent Rhythm
Alternate picking needs to flow like a metronome. Slow down your practice to pinpoint where your rhythm falters.
3. Pick Angle
Holding the pick at the right angle reduces friction and ensures smooth transitions. Experiment to find what works for you.
4 Tips for Mastery
Stay Relaxed: Tension in your hand or wrist will slow you down. Keep your picking hand loose.
Angle Your Pick: A slight angle (instead of keeping the pick flat against the strings) can make picking smoother.
Practice Dynamics: Try playing with different levels of force to add expressiveness.
Listen to Great Players: Study alternate picking solos to understand how the technique is used musically.
Summary
If your musical goal is to master alternate picking which is the secret weapon of guitarists who want to play faster, cleaner, and more efficiently.
By alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, you can tackle everything from speedy solos to intricate riffs, unlocking the full potential of your playing.