How to Use Left Hand Techniques on Classical Guitar

Left hand technique for the guitar refers to fretting technique, regardless of the hand actually performing this action. This aspect of classical guitar playing is largely unchanged from other playing styles. The following steps will show how to use left hand techniques on classical guitar.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Hold the wrist straight to allow greater playing speed as you progress by eliminating unnecessary wrist movement. A straight wrist also will reduce the chances of injury caused by repetitive movements from the wrist.

2. Keep the thumb in the center of the neck. As in Step 1, we wish to minimize unneeded movement and this position allows all of the strings to be fretted with the least overall effort. Some players place the thumb slightly toward the top, which favors fretting of the higher strings.

3. Exert only minimal pressure with the thumb. Most of the pressure required for good fretting should come from the fingers. Excessive use of the thumb on the fretting hand is a major source of fatigue in prolonged playing.

4. Space the fingers evenly. This allows each finger to fret properly with the least amount of movement. The nails on the fretting hand must be kept short and should never touch the strings.

5. Shift the hand up and down the neck by moving the arm from the elbow. This allows the hand to remain in the correct posture regardless of its position on the neck. There should be little to no movement from the shoulder.