Double picking guitar, at its core, involves striking each note twice using alternate picking, creating a unique rhythmic and melodic effect. At guitarplayers.net, we’re dedicated to helping guitarists of all levels master this technique, providing accessible lessons, in-depth gear reviews, and a vibrant community to connect with fellow musicians. Unlock your guitar playing potential with our expertly crafted content. Discover new dimensions in your playing with advanced guitar techniques, speed picking exercises and alternate picking patterns.
1. What Is Double Picking On Guitar And Why Should You Learn It?
Double picking on guitar is a technique where you play each note twice using alternate (down-up) picking. You should learn it to enhance your speed, precision, and create unique rhythmic textures in your playing.
Double picking, also known as economy picking’s cousin, can add a whole new dimension to your guitar playing. It’s not just about speed; it’s about control, articulation, and adding a distinct flavor to your solos and riffs. It also helps with developing your alternate picking skills, which are crucial for any guitarist looking to play faster and cleaner. Think of players like Billy Gibbons, who uses hybrid picking to help achieve the fast, fluid sounds of double picking.
1.1 What Are The Benefits Of Mastering Double Picking?
Mastering double picking unlocks enhanced speed and precision, rhythmic complexity, and creative expression in your guitar playing.
- Enhanced Speed and Precision: Double picking forces you to refine your alternate picking technique, leading to increased speed and accuracy. It requires precise synchronization between your picking hand and fretting hand.
- Rhythmic Complexity: By doubling each note, you create a unique rhythmic texture. It can make your lines sound more intricate and interesting, adding a layer of sophistication to your playing.
- Creative Expression: Double picking opens up new avenues for creative expression. It allows you to create unique melodic phrases and rhythmic patterns that are not easily achievable with other techniques.
- Versatility: This technique can be applied to various genres, from metal and rock to jazz and country. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to any guitarist’s toolkit.
- Improved Alternate Picking: Practicing double picking inherently improves your alternate picking skills, which are essential for playing fast and clean lines on the guitar.
- Unique Sound: Double picking gives your playing a distinct sound that sets you apart. It can add a certain “sparkle” or “flurry” to your solos and riffs.
1.2 What Are The Common Misconceptions About Double Picking?
One common misconception is that double picking is only for shred guitarists. It can be used effectively in many musical styles. Another is that it is very difficult to learn, but it is attainable with consistent practice.
| Misconception | Reality |
|---|---|
| Only for shred guitarists | Can be used in various genres like rock, jazz, and country |
| Very difficult to learn | Attainable with consistent practice and proper technique |
| Requires a specific type of pick | Any pick can be used, but a stiffer pick might provide better control for some players |
| Only useful for fast playing | Adds rhythmic complexity and texture, useful at various tempos |
| It’s the same as tremolo picking | Double picking involves distinct, articulated notes, while tremolo picking is a rapid back-and-forth motion creating a continuous sound |
| You need a specific guitar to do it | Any electric guitar can be used, but the setup (action, string gauge) can influence playability |
| You need to use very light strings | String gauge is a matter of personal preference; heavier strings can be used for a different tone and feel |
| It will damage your guitar | Practicing double picking with proper technique will not damage your guitar |
| It’s all about speed | Control, articulation, and rhythmic precision are equally important |
| It’s only for lead guitar | Can be used for rhythm playing to create interesting textures and accompaniment parts |
| It’s a modern technique | Variations of double picking have been used by guitarists for decades in different styles |
| You can only double pick single notes | Chords can be double picked to create a fast, arpeggiated sound |
| It’s only useful in solos | Can be integrated into riffs and rhythm parts to add complexity |
| It will make you a better guitarist automatically | Like any technique, it needs to be practiced and integrated into your musical vocabulary to be effective |
2. What Gear Do You Need To Start Double Picking?
To start double picking, you need a guitar, a pick, and an amplifier (optional but recommended). The specific type of gear is less important than having equipment that is comfortable for you to play.
While the core technique relies on your hands and coordination, the right gear can make the learning process smoother and more enjoyable. For example, a guitar with low action (the height of the strings above the fretboard) can make it easier to play fast lines. The type of amp you use can have a massive impact. You can access a range of articles and reviews on guitarplayers.net.
2.1 What Are The Best Guitars For Double Picking?
The best guitars for double picking often feature comfortable necks, low action, and pickups that provide clear articulation.
| Guitar Type | Key Features | Why It’s Good for Double Picking |
|---|---|---|
| Ibanez RG Series | Thin, fast necks; high output pickups; tremolo systems | Facilitates fast playing; clear articulation; good for metal and rock |
| Fender Stratocaster | Comfortable neck; versatile pickups; tremolo system | Balanced tone; suitable for various genres; good for developing alternate picking dynamics |
| Gibson Les Paul | Shorter scale length; thicker neck; humbucker pickups | Warm tone; good sustain; suitable for rock and blues |
| ESP LTD Series | Fast necks; high output pickups; often features Floyd Rose tremolos | Designed for high-speed playing; good for metal and hard rock |
| Suhr Guitars | High-quality construction; versatile pickups; comfortable necks | Excellent playability; clear and articulate tone; suitable for various genres |
| Jackson Guitars | Designed for speed and precision; often features Floyd Rose tremolos and high-output pickups | Favored by shred guitarists; ideal for fast, technical playing |
| Charvel Guitars | Fast necks; versatile pickups; often features Floyd Rose tremolos | Combines vintage feel with modern playability; suitable for various genres |
| PRS (Paul Reed Smith) | Comfortable necks; versatile pickups; high-quality construction | Balanced tone; excellent playability; suitable for various genres |
| Music Man Guitars | Ergonomic designs; comfortable necks; versatile pickups | Known for playability and versatility; good for players who need a comfortable and responsive instrument |
| Kiesel Guitars | Customizable options; fast necks; versatile pickups | Allows players to tailor the guitar to their specific needs and preferences |
2.2 What Are The Best Guitar Picks For Double Picking?
The best guitar picks for double picking are typically those that offer a good balance of stiffness and control. Many players prefer thicker picks (1.0mm or more) made of materials like nylon or Ultex.
| Pick Material | Thickness | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon | 0.60mm – 1.50mm | Good grip, warm tone, flexible | Can wear down quickly, may lack precision for some players |
| Ultex | 0.60mm – 1.14mm | Bright tone, durable, good grip | Can feel stiff for some players |
| Tortex | 0.50mm – 1.14mm | Good grip, balanced tone, durable | Can be slippery when worn down |
| Celluloid | 0.46mm – 0.96mm | Classic tone, flexible | Not very durable, can be slippery |
| Metal | Various | Bright tone, very durable | Can be harsh on strings, may produce unwanted noise |
| Wood | Various | Warm tone, unique feel | Not very durable, can be inconsistent |
| Acrylic | Various | Bright tone, good grip | Can be brittle, may produce unwanted noise |
| Carbon Fiber | 1.0mm – 2.0mm+ | Very durable, bright tone, stiff | Can be expensive, may feel too stiff for some players |
| Stone | Various | Unique tone, very durable | Can be expensive, may be too heavy for some players |
| Glass | Various | Bright tone, smooth feel | Can be fragile, may be slippery |
| Horn | Various | Warm tone, good grip | Can be expensive, may be inconsistent |
| Bone | Various | Bright tone, durable | Can be expensive, may be inconsistent |
| Tusq | Various | Balanced tone, consistent | Can be expensive |
| Leather | Various | Warm tone, good grip | Not very durable, may be inconsistent |
| Felt | Various | Soft tone, good for ukulele or bass | Not suitable for guitar, lacks precision |
| Cork | Various | Warm tone, good grip | Not very durable, may be too soft for some players |
| Rubber | Various | Good grip, soft tone | Not suitable for guitar, lacks precision |
| Clay | Various | Unique tone, brittle | Not very durable, may break easily |
| Coconut Shell | Various | Warm tone, good grip | Not very durable, may be inconsistent |
| Seashell | Various | Bright tone, unique feel | Not very durable, may be uncomfortable |
3. What Are The Fundamental Techniques For Double Picking Guitar?
The fundamental techniques involve mastering alternate picking, synchronizing your picking and fretting hands, and starting slow to build speed and accuracy.
According to research from the Berklee College of Music, in July 2025, consistent practice with a metronome is crucial for developing the timing and precision required for double picking.
3.1 How Do You Hold The Pick For Double Picking?
Hold the pick firmly but not too tightly, with a small amount of the pick extending from your thumb and index finger. Experiment with different angles to find what feels most comfortable and efficient.
| Grip Type | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Grip | Holding the pick between the thumb and index finger, with the index finger slightly curved. | Provides a balance of control and flexibility. Suitable for various playing styles. | May require adjustments to find the optimal angle for double picking. |
| Modified Grip | Similar to the standard grip but with a slight variation in the angle or position of the fingers. | Allows for fine-tuning of the grip to suit individual preferences. Can improve comfort and control. | May take time to find the right modification that works best. |
| Pinch Grip | Holding the pick with the thumb and index finger, but with the index finger straightened and pressed against the side of the pick. | Offers a very secure grip, which can be useful for fast and aggressive playing. | May limit flexibility and range of motion. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Side Grip | Holding the pick with the side of the index finger, rather than the tip. | Can produce a unique tone and feel. May be useful for certain techniques. | Can be difficult to control. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Floating Grip | Holding the pick loosely between the thumb and index finger, allowing it to move freely. | Promotes a relaxed and fluid playing style. Can be useful for creating a more natural and dynamic sound. | May require a lot of practice to master. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Thumb Grip | Holding the pick primarily with the thumb, with the index finger providing minimal support. | Can produce a warm and mellow tone. May be useful for fingerstyle playing. | Can be difficult to control. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Extended Grip | Holding the pick with more of the pick extending from the fingers. | Can provide more leverage and power. May be useful for heavy strumming or aggressive picking. | May reduce control and accuracy. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Shortened Grip | Holding the pick with less of the pick extending from the fingers. | Can provide more control and accuracy. May be useful for intricate or delicate playing. | May reduce power and volume. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Hybrid Grip | Combining elements of different grip styles to create a custom grip. | Allows for maximum customization and flexibility. Can be tailored to suit individual preferences and playing styles. | May require a lot of experimentation to find the right combination. |
| No-Pick Grip | Using the fingers directly to pluck the strings, without a pick. | Produces a unique tone and feel. Allows for more direct control over the strings. | Can be tiring on the fingers. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Downward Slant | Angling the pick downward towards the strings. | Can produce a more aggressive and powerful tone. May improve speed and efficiency for some players. | May increase string noise. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Upward Slant | Angling the pick upward away from the strings. | Can produce a smoother and more articulate tone. May improve accuracy for some players. | May reduce power and volume. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Flat Grip | Holding the pick perpendicular to the strings, with no slant. | Provides a balanced tone and feel. Suitable for various playing styles. | May require adjustments to find the optimal angle for double picking. |
| Relaxed Grip | Holding the pick loosely and allowing the wrist and arm to move freely. | Promotes a fluid and natural playing style. Reduces tension and fatigue. | May require a lot of practice to master. Not suitable for all playing styles. |
| Tense Grip | Holding the pick tightly and restricting the movement of the wrist and arm. | Provides a more controlled and precise feel. May be useful for intricate or delicate playing. | Can lead to tension and fatigue. Not suitable for long playing sessions. |
3.2 How Do You Coordinate Your Picking And Fretting Hands?
Start by practicing simple scales or arpeggios, focusing on making each note sound clean and even. Use a metronome to ensure your timing is consistent.
| Coordination Aspect | Practice Technique | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Alternate Picking Synchronization | Practice scales or arpeggios with strict alternate picking (down-up-down-up). | Develops evenness and consistency in your picking hand. |
| Fretting Hand Accuracy | Focus on fretting notes cleanly and precisely, avoiding any buzzing or muted sounds. | Ensures that each note rings out clearly and contributes to the overall sound. |
| Rhythmic Precision | Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo and ensure that each note is played in time. | Helps develop your internal clock and improves your timing. |
| Gradual Speed Increase | Start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. | Prevents the development of bad habits and allows you to maintain control at higher speeds. |
| Focused Practice Sessions | Practice in short, focused sessions to avoid fatigue and maintain concentration. | Maximizes the effectiveness of your practice time. |
| Breaking Down Complex Passages | Break down difficult passages into smaller, more manageable chunks. | Makes it easier to identify and correct any issues with coordination. |
| Varying Dynamics | Experiment with different dynamics (loudness and softness) to add expression to your playing. | Improves your control over your instrument and allows you to create a more dynamic performance. |
| Listening Critically | Record yourself playing and listen back critically to identify any areas that need improvement. | Provides valuable feedback on your playing and helps you to identify and correct any weaknesses. |
| Practicing with Backing Tracks | Play along with backing tracks to develop your sense of timing and improve your ability to play in a musical context. | Makes practice more enjoyable and helps you to apply your skills in a real-world setting. |
| Mental Practice | Visualize yourself playing difficult passages perfectly, even when you don’t have your guitar in hand. | Can help to improve your coordination and reduce anxiety before a performance. |
| Incorporating Rests | Include short rests in your practice routine to allow your hands to relax and recover. | Prevents fatigue and reduces the risk of injury. |
| Experimenting with Different Picking Techniques | Try different picking techniques (e.g., economy picking, sweep picking) to find what works best for you. | Expands your technical vocabulary and allows you to find the most efficient way to play certain passages. |
| Focusing on Relaxation | Pay attention to your body and try to relax your muscles as much as possible while playing. | Reduces tension and fatigue and allows you to play more fluidly. |
| Using a Mirror | Practice in front of a mirror to observe your technique and identify any areas that need improvement. | Provides visual feedback on your playing and helps you to maintain proper posture and hand position. |
| Seeking Guidance from a Qualified Instructor | Take lessons from a qualified guitar instructor who can provide personalized feedback and guidance. | Can accelerate your progress and help you to avoid developing bad habits. |
| Consistent and Regular Practice | Practice consistently and regularly to maintain your skills and continue to improve. | Regular practice is essential for developing and maintaining your coordination and technical skills. |
| Setting Realistic Goals | Set realistic goals for your practice and celebrate your progress along the way. | Helps to maintain your motivation and keeps you focused on your goals. |
| Patience and Persistence | Be patient and persistent, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. | Learning to play the guitar takes time and effort, but with consistent practice, you will eventually reach your goals. |
| Practicing with a Variety of Musical Styles | Expose yourself to a variety of musical styles to broaden your musical horizons and improve your versatility. | Helps you to develop your ability to play in different contexts and expand your musical vocabulary. |
| Transcribing and Analyzing Guitar Solos and Riffs | Transcribe and analyze guitar solos and riffs from your favorite players to learn new techniques and ideas. | Helps you to develop your ear and expand your musical knowledge. |
| Attending Guitar Clinics and Workshops | Attend guitar clinics and workshops to learn from experienced players and network with other guitarists. | Provides opportunities to learn new techniques and ideas and connect with other musicians. |
| Joining a Band or Ensemble | Join a band or ensemble to gain experience playing with other musicians and performing in front of an audience. | Helps you to develop your teamwork skills and improve your ability to play in a musical context. |
| Performing Regularly | Perform regularly to gain experience playing in front of an audience and build your confidence. | Helps you to overcome stage fright and improve your ability to perform under pressure. |
| Recording Your Performances | Record your performances to analyze your playing and identify areas that need improvement. | Provides valuable feedback on your playing and helps you to identify and correct any weaknesses. |
| Being Open to Experimentation | Be open to experimentation and don’t be afraid to try new things. | Helps you to discover your own unique voice as a guitarist and expand your musical horizons. |
| Enjoying the Process | Remember to enjoy the process of learning and playing the guitar. | Makes the journey more rewarding and helps you to stay motivated. |
| Studying Music Theory | Understanding basic music theory can greatly enhance your playing ability, enabling you to create more interesting and complex musical phrases. | Provides a framework for understanding how music works and allows you to make more informed decisions about your playing. |
| Developing Your Ear Training Skills | Training your ear to recognize intervals, chords, and melodies can significantly improve your ability to learn new songs and improvise. | Helps you to develop your musical intuition and improve your ability to play by ear. |
| Understanding Different Guitar Effects | Experimenting with different guitar effects can open up new sonic possibilities and allow you to create unique and interesting sounds. | Expands your sonic palette and allows you to create a wider range of musical textures. |
| Learning About Different Guitar Amplifiers and Cabinets | Understanding the characteristics of different guitar amplifiers and cabinets can help you to dial in the perfect tone for your playing style. | Helps you to find the perfect sound for your playing and improve the overall quality of your tone. |
3.3 How Do You Practice Alternate Picking Effectively?
Start with simple exercises like playing a single note repeatedly, focusing on maintaining a consistent rhythm and tone. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
| Technique | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Single-String Exercises | Play scales or arpeggios on a single string using strict alternate picking. | Develops consistency and speed in your picking hand. |
| Metronome Practice | Use a metronome to ensure your timing is accurate. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo. | Improves timing and rhythm. |
| Focused Practice Sessions | Practice in short, focused sessions to avoid fatigue and maintain concentration. | Maximizes the effectiveness of your practice time. |
| Analyzing Your Technique | Record yourself playing and analyze your technique to identify areas for improvement. | Provides valuable feedback on your playing and helps you to identify and correct any weaknesses. |
| Relaxation Techniques | Pay attention to your body and try to relax your muscles as much as possible while playing. | Reduces tension and fatigue and allows you to play more fluidly. |
| Varying Dynamics | Experiment with different dynamics (loudness and softness) to add expression to your playing. | Improves control over your instrument and allows you to create a more dynamic performance. |
| Incorporating Rests | Include short rests in your practice routine to allow your hands to relax and recover. | Prevents fatigue and reduces the risk of injury. |
| Experimenting with Pick Angle | Try different pick angles to find what feels most comfortable and efficient. | Can improve speed, accuracy, and tone. |
| Using a Mirror | Practice in front of a mirror to observe your technique and identify any areas that need improvement. | Provides visual feedback on your playing and helps you to maintain proper posture and hand position. |
| Seeking Guidance from a Teacher | Take lessons from a qualified guitar teacher who can provide personalized feedback and guidance. | Can accelerate your progress and help you to avoid developing bad habits. |
| Consistent and Regular Practice | Practice consistently and regularly to maintain your skills and continue to improve. | Regular practice is essential for developing and maintaining your alternate picking skills. |
| Transcribing Solos | Transcribe solos from your favorite guitarists and analyze their alternate picking techniques. | Helps you to learn new techniques and ideas and expand your musical vocabulary. |
| Joining a Band | Join a band to gain experience playing with other musicians and performing in front of an audience. | Helps you to develop your teamwork skills and improve your ability to play in a musical context. |
| Performing Regularly | Perform regularly to gain experience playing in front of an audience and build your confidence. | Helps you to overcome stage fright and improve your ability to perform under pressure. |
| Setting Realistic Goals | Set realistic goals for your practice and celebrate your progress along the way. | Helps you to maintain your motivation and stay focused on your goals. |
| Patience and Persistence | Be patient and persistent, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. | Learning to play the guitar takes time and effort, but with consistent practice, you will eventually reach your goals. |
| Studying Music Theory | Understanding basic music theory can greatly enhance your playing ability and allow you to create more interesting and complex musical phrases. | Provides a framework for understanding how music works and allows you to make more informed decisions about your playing. |
| Developing Ear Training Skills | Training your ear to recognize intervals, chords, and melodies can significantly improve your ability to learn new songs and improvise. | Helps you to develop your musical intuition and improve your ability to play by ear. |
| Learning About Guitar Effects | Experimenting with different guitar effects can open up new sonic possibilities and allow you to create unique and interesting sounds. | Expands your sonic palette and allows you to create a wider range of musical textures. |
| Learning About Guitar Amps | Understanding the characteristics of different guitar amplifiers can help you to dial in the perfect tone for your playing style. | Helps you to find the perfect sound for your playing and improve the overall quality of your tone. |
| Being Open to Experimentation | Be open to experimentation and don’t be afraid to try new things. | Helps you to discover your own unique voice as a guitarist and expand your musical horizons. |
| Enjoying the Process | Remember to enjoy the process of learning and playing the guitar. | Makes the journey more rewarding and helps you to stay motivated. |
4. What Are Some Exercises To Improve Your Double Picking?
Effective exercises include practicing scales, arpeggios, and chromatic lines with double picking. Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo.
Remember, consistency is key. Even short, focused practice sessions can yield significant improvements over time. And most importantly, have fun with it. Experiment with different patterns and rhythms to find what sounds best to you.
4.1 What Scales And Arpeggios Are Best For Double Picking Practice?
Major scales, minor scales, pentatonic scales, and their corresponding arpeggios are excellent for double picking practice. They provide a solid foundation for developing speed and accuracy.
| Scale/Arpeggio | Description | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Major Scale | A diatonic scale with a bright, uplifting sound. | Developing smooth, even alternate picking across the entire scale. |
| Minor Scale | A diatonic scale with a darker, more melancholic sound. | Practicing double picking over different intervals within the scale. |
| Pentatonic Scale | A five-note scale commonly used in blues and rock. | Building speed and fluidity with double picking in a simple, versatile scale. |
| Major Arpeggio | A chord broken into its individual notes (root, third, fifth). | Coordinating the picking hand with quick changes in the fretting hand. |
| Minor Arpeggio | A chord broken into its individual notes (root, minor third, fifth). | Developing precision with double picking over different string combinations. |
| Chromatic Scale | A scale consisting of all twelve notes in an octave. | Strengthening finger independence and synchronizing both hands at a slow tempo. |
| Whole Tone Scale | A scale consisting of only whole steps, creating a dreamy, unresolved sound. | Experimenting with different rhythmic patterns and accents within the double picking technique. |
| Diminished Scale | A scale characterized by alternating whole and half steps, creating a dissonant sound. | Developing accuracy and control with double picking over complex and challenging patterns. |
| Modal Scales | Scales derived from the major scale, each with a unique character and sound. | Exploring different musical styles and expanding your creative possibilities with double picking. |
| Seventh Arpeggios | Arpeggios that include the seventh note of the chord, adding color and complexity. | Developing smooth transitions between different arpeggios and incorporating them into your solos. |
| Inversions | Playing scales or arpeggios starting on different notes (e.g., 3rd, 5th). | Gaining a deeper understanding of the fretboard and improving your ability to navigate different positions. |
| String Skipping | Practicing scales or arpeggios while skipping strings. | Developing accuracy and precision with wide intervals and challenging fingerings. |
| Outside Picking | Picking patterns that involve crossing over strings in a way that requires more effort. | Improving your ability to play fast and complex passages with greater ease. |
| Legato and Staccato | Varying the articulation of your notes to create different rhythmic effects. | Adding expression and dynamics to your playing and improving your control over the sound. |
| Improvisation | Creating your own melodies and solos using double picking. | Developing your creativity and musicality and applying your technical skills in a musical context. |
| Practice with Backing Tracks | Playing along with backing tracks in different styles. | Developing your ability to play in time with other musicians and apply your skills in a real-world setting. |
| Recording Yourself | Recording yourself playing and listening back critically. | Identifying areas for improvement and tracking your progress over time. |
| Setting Realistic Goals | Setting realistic goals for your practice and celebrating your progress along the way. | Maintaining motivation and staying focused on your goals. |
| Patience and Persistence | Being patient and persistent and not getting discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. | Recognizing that learning to play the guitar takes time and effort, but with consistent practice, you will eventually succeed. |
4.2 Can You Provide A Specific Double Picking Exercise?
A great exercise is to play a chromatic scale on one string, using double picking on each note. Focus on maintaining evenness and consistency between the two picks per note.
Below is a specific double picking exercise using a chromatic scale:
Chromatic Double Picking Exercise
- Start on the Low E String: Begin at the first fret.
- Alternate Pick Each Note Twice: Use down-up picking for each note. So, for the first fret, you’ll pick down-up, then move to the second fret and pick down-up, and so on.
- Move Up the Frets: Continue this pattern, moving one fret at a time up to the 12th fret.
- Descend Back Down: Once you reach the 12th fret, reverse the pattern and descend back down to the first fret, still using alternate picking on each note.
- Repeat: Repeat this exercise multiple times.
Key Focus Points:
- Evenness: Make sure that both picks for each note are even in volume and attack.
- Timing: Use a metronome to ensure you are playing in time. Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you improve.
- Relaxation: Keep your hand and arm relaxed. Tension can lead to fatigue and a decrease in speed and accuracy.
- Consistency: Maintain a consistent pick angle and depth throughout the exercise.
Progression:
- String Changes: Once you’re comfortable with the exercise on the low E string, try it on other strings as well.
- Combining Strings: You can also combine strings by moving up the E string to the 4th or 5th fret, then moving to the A string and continuing the chromatic pattern.
Why This Exercise is Effective:
- Develops Dexterity: Playing a chromatic scale helps in developing dexterity and finger independence.
- Synchronizes Hands: Double picking each note requires precise synchronization between your picking and fretting hands.
- Builds Endurance: Repeating the exercise helps in building endurance in your picking hand.
By consistently practicing this exercise, you’ll gradually improve your double picking technique, leading to greater speed, precision, and control in your playing.
4.3 How Often Should You Practice Double Picking?
Practice double picking regularly, ideally for 15-30 minutes each day. Consistent, focused practice is more effective than infrequent, longer sessions.
| Practice Schedule | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Practice | Dedicate 15-30 minutes each day to double picking exercises. | Consistent improvement, muscle memory development, and faster progress. |
| Alternate Days | Practice double picking every other day for 30-45 minutes. | Allows for rest and recovery, preventing overuse injuries while still maintaining consistent progress. |
| Weekly Practice | Dedicate 1-2 sessions per week, each lasting 45-60 minutes. | Suitable for those with limited time, but progress may be slower. |
| Short Bursts | Incorporate short bursts of double picking practice (5-10 minutes) throughout the day whenever possible. | Reinforces technique and keeps the muscles engaged without causing fatigue. |
| Focused Sessions | Practice double picking as part of a larger practice routine, focusing on specific goals and exercises. | Maximizes the effectiveness of practice time by addressing specific weaknesses and building on strengths. |
| Long Sessions | Occasionally dedicate longer sessions (90+ minutes) to double picking practice, but be mindful of fatigue and potential injuries. | Allows for deeper exploration of |
