related: A Simple Way To Start Alternate Picking on Guitar

Previously I gave you a beginning alternate picking exercise to practice on each individual string of your guitar. In this guitar lesson I offer an exercise to help you master alternate picking combined with string crossings, so that you can use alternate picking to play any melody or lick.

Moving between guitar strings while alternate picking a particular set of notes may involve different combinations of strings depending on where the notes lie on the fretboard. Measure 1 of the exercise includes a 4-note pattern in the key of Bb. The first note of the pattern lies on the G string while the other 3 notes lie on the D string. Use alternate picking to play through this measure several times slowly until you feel comfortable with the down-up-down-up picking pattern. The key is to master the upstroke on the second note while maintaining steady time, and even tone and volume.

Next try measure 2. This uses the same note pattern as measure 1, but the second note is played on the G string at the 5th fret instead on the D string at the 10th fret. This measure consists of two notes on the G string and 2 notes on the D string, so string crossings occur in different places than in measure 1. Play this measure several times while maintaining picking accuracy.

Measure 3 is yet another fingering and string combination involving the exact same pattern of pitches, moving the third note of the original pattern to the G string. This measure includes 3 notes on the G string and only one on the D string. Repeat the practice procedures above for this measure.

When you can can play each measure accurately and reliably at a slow tempo, gradually increase your speed at a rate at which you can maintain accuracy. Remember that accuracy includes  steady rhythm, even tone and volume, and efficient hand movement.

You can take this idea further by choosing any phrase you come across in a melody or solo, and playing it in different positions on guitar. When you practice regularly in this way for a short time each day, your alternate picking will become more and more accurate and effortless.

related: A Simple Way To Start Alternate Picking on Guitar

© 2014 Brenna Method

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