How to Have Proper Right Hand Posture in Flamenco Guitar

The flamenco guitar playing style requires the performer to be energetic with swift fingers. The positioning of the right hand is the key to proper performance. The right hand must not only be dexterous but be able to play each string comfortably.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin by flexing the fingers. Warm up the hand for a few seconds before playing. The tiny muscles, joints and tendons need to be stretched and relaxed in order to flex properly.

2. Place the right hand above the strings in a comfortable open hand position. Do not adopt an artificial clenched style as this will decrease the reach and restrict playing.

3. Allow the wrist to stick out a bit. This lets the fingers extend and move perpendicular to the face of the guitar.

4. Move the thumb so that it is approximately at a 45 degree angle to the guitar. The thumb acts as a sort of counterbalance.

5. Touch the strings lightly with the fingertips to get a feel for the subtle movements necessary for correct flamenco guitar hand posture.