Scale Lesson 3
Alternate picking versus Natural picking
In this lesson we are still going to focus on the C major scale in 1st position that we learned in lesson 2, however in this lesson the focus is going to be on picking.
We will look at the two different ways you will pick just about anything you will ever learn. One is where we alternate pick each and every note. So down and then up and so on.
The other has a couple different names but I like to refer to it as natural picking. It involves the pick continues in the direction it was already going.
So below we will look at these two options.
Alternate Picking
Alternate picking involves alternating between down and up strokes with the pick.
Practice alternate picking on an open string. When you feel comfortable with the alternate picking proceed to play this scale as marked. Start with a down stroke.
You might also want to try tapping your foot and practicing alternate picking on one string. You will pick down when your foot hits the floor and up when your foot comes up.
Natural Picking
Also known as Economy Picking
Natural picking is a combination of alternate and sweep picking. Alternate picking is the fastest way to play on one string but sweep picking keeps the pick going in the same direction when crossing strings and sometimes lets us go even faster.
The importance of the pick hand can never be underestimated. Many players tend to concentrate more on the fret hand and believe it is their fret hand that lacks in obtaining the speed they would like to have. 9 times out of 10 it is the picking hand that is the problem. Just ask any violinist how important the bow is. Our pick is no different.
