If you want to expand your acoustic guitar playing beyond just using a pick, then fingerstyle guitar playing is the perfect solution. This technique involves using your fingers instead of a pick to create a unique sound and incredible versatility.
With fingerstyle guitar playing, you can do several amazing things that you simply cannot do with a pick alone. However, as with any guitar technique, there are right ways and wrong ways you can go about it.
This guide aims to save you loads of time from the outset and get you on your way to a great fingerstyle technique. Once you've mastered this technique, you'll be able to tackle some of the best fingerstyle guitar songs with ease. Get ready to take your skills to the next level by learning how to play fingerstyle guitar!
Basic Tips to Play Fingerstyle Guitar
Learning how to play fingerstyle guitar is a wonderful experience. Finger-picking takes more skill than strumming regular guitar chords. Here are some basic tips to help you with your fingerstyle guitar.
1. Opt for Lighter Strings
Traditional medium gauge strings on acoustic guitars are ideal for strumming, but they can be harsh on your fingertips when trying to learn how to play fingerstyle guitar. Consider switching to a set of light gauge strings or custom light gauge options. As you learn fingerpicking techniques, these lighter strings will be gentler on your fingertips.
As your fingertips develop calluses, you can always switch back to heavier strings if that's your preference. Alternatively, experimenting with a nylon string guitar can also provide a more comfortable experience, as nylon strings are softer on the fingers compared to regular steel strings.
2. Take Care of Your Nails
When you’re in the process of learning how to play fingerstyle guitar, taking care of your fingernails is essential for achieving the perfect sound. Striking the balance with nail length is crucial. Aim to keep your nails long enough to pluck the strings effectively but not too long before they become a hindrance. Consistency is key - ensure all your nails are at a uniform length while avoiding the mismatched lengths that can lead to an uneven sound.
Furthermore, keep your nails in shape by filing them regularly to achieve a rounded edge, reducing the risk of breakage. While false fingernails may seem like a quick fix, they won't provide the same control and precision as your natural nails. Likewise, keep the nails on your fretting hand short to facilitate chord changes and note playing, reserving the longer nails for your strumming hand to produce the melodic magic of fingerstyle guitar.
3. Take Cognizance of the Bass Notes
The bass notes are the heart and soul of your fingerstyle guitar piece. To make them work effectively, ensure they ring out clearly and melodically. Use your thumb to pluck these notes, while your other fingers dance along the treble strings. Remember, the bass notes are responsible for propelling the melody forward, making them the focal point of your fingerstyle masterpiece.
In most cases, the bass notes are the very roots of the chords you're playing. The listener needs to hear these foundational notes as you strum and pick. As you practice chord progressions, concentrate on making the root note resonate and stand out in your fingerstyle performance. Put more accent on the bass note to ensure it rings out clearly while guiding the progression and adding depth to the melody.
4. Take it Slow
When learning how to play fingerstyle guitar, you need to start at a slow pace. Building speed in fingerpicking takes time and cannot be rushed. Using a metronome is recommended to help you gradually increase your speed.
Once you can play a piece without making any mistakes at a slow pace, then you can start speeding it up. It's more beneficial to play slowly and accurately, rather than rushing through and making numerous mistakes. If you don't take the time to correct these mistakes, you will continue to make them. Consistent and dedicated practice at a slow pace will ultimately make it easier for you to master intricate fingerstyle arrangements.
5. Break It Down
When playing a fingerstyle piece, it's important to approach it in sections. Break the music down into smaller parts and focus on mastering each section. Identify patterns in the music and how the chords are changing.
Sometimes, minor finger adjustments may be all that's needed to transition to the next chord. If you encounter a challenging section, analyze it to understand the problem, then direct your practice efforts towards mastering that specific section.
6. Listen to Fingerstyle Players
To be proficient while learning how to play fingerstyle guitar, it's important to listen to and study the works of fingerstyle masters. Drawing inspiration from their playing style on the best fingerstyle guitar songs can enhance your musical abilities. Observe how they approach chords and try to emulate their techniques.
Challenge yourself by learning some of the best fingerstyle guitar songs from your favorite fingerstyle guitarists, even if the music seems intricate. Investing time and effort in mastering these pieces will prove to be valuable learning experiences. Achieving proficiency in a complex fingerstyle piece by one of your admired artists can bring great satisfaction and growth in your guitar skills.
7. Constant Practice
Achieving finger independence for both fretting and picking hands in fingerstyle guitar playing requires a substantial amount of time and dedication. Unlike strumming through chord progressions, fingerstyle playing involves picking individual notes which makes it easier to commit mistakes.
Dedicate regular practice sessions to sit down with your guitar and focus on building your skills. Begin with simple chord progressions and gradually progress to more challenging pieces. Starting with easy songs and gradually advancing to complex ones will help you develop your technique over time. Remember, the more time and effort you invest in practicing fingerstyle guitar, the greater the rewards you will reap in the long run.
Be Consistent While Practicing Your Fingerstyle Guitar Skills
Conclusively, fingerstyle guitar is fun, but it is challenging. You have to sit down and do a lot of consistent practice. You should take care of your nails and use lighter guitar strings. Listen to some of the best fingerstyle guitar songs from your favorite artists for inspiration. Also, break down sections that you don't understand into easy and manageable chunks. By implementing these tips and techniques, you can develop your skills as a beginner and build a strong foundation in fingerstyle guitar playing.