How to Hold a Plectrum
The plectrum, also known as a pick, is used by electric and acoustic guitar players to articulate notes and rhythms. A guitarist can use one of several popular techniques to master the fundamentals of guitar playing. By following a few simple steps, you can quickly learn the proper way to hold a plectrum.
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Instructions
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Place the plectrum in your right hand if you are using a right-handed guitar. If you are using a guitar designed for
left-handed musicians, hold the plectrum in your left hand.
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Use your thumb and forefinger to grip the plectrum. Place your thumb across the pick, positioning it perpendicular to the narrow point used to pluck the strings. Your forefinger will rest underneath the pick at a perpendicular angle to the thumb. Position both of your fingers near the tip of the pick.
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Focus on relaxing your hand while holding the plectrum. Prolonged tension during practice and performance can injure the hands. A relaxed grip on the plectrum will allow you perform with better accuracy and speed.
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Tips & Warnings
Plectrums are available in a wide variety of shapes and stiffness. These factors directly influence the sound your guitar will produce. Experiment with many styles of plectrums to find your ideal sound.
Extremely stiff plectrums produce a crisp, clear sound, but can snap the strings on your instrument. Consider purchasing a thicker string if you plan to use stiffer varieties of plectrums.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit guitar picks on white image by Yasen Pramatarov from Fotolia.com
