Descending scales faster commencing with upstroke?

Is it my imagination or is it more efficient, cleaner, faster etc. to commence a descending run (whatever scale) on an upstroke rather than a downstroke? It seems so to me.

Originally Posted by: John H. PowerIs it my imagination or is it more efficient, cleaner, faster etc. to commence a descending run (whatever scale) on an upstroke rather than a downstroke?

It depends upon the context of the situation.

Certain things are easier starting on downstrokes, and others on upstrokes. It totally depends upon the specifics of the notes and patterns you are playing.

Consider:

E |-8-7-5---------------|
B |--------8-7-5--------|
G |---------------------|
D |---------------------|
A |---------------------|
E |---------------------|

If you start this on an upstoke and continue alternate picking, then getting from the A to the G (changing strings moving down) you can use economy picking and play both of those notes with a downstroke. Makes it more efficient.

However:

E |-8-5-7-5-------------|
B |----------8-7-5------|
G |---------------------|
D |---------------------|
A |---------------------|
E |---------------------|

In this case starting with a downstroke makes getting from the A to the G easier with economy picking.

Also, certain situations might call for a heavier sound; use all downstrokes. Other situations might call for a lighter touch; use all upstrokes.

Make sense?

Everything depends upon context. :)

Practice it both ways - you'll need to be prepared for any situation.

Ascending runs can be started with an upstroke as well. This can be more efficient if you're starting with 2 notes on the lowest string, which will allow you to continue your second motion (downstroke) to the next highest string.

Originally Posted by: CSchlegelIt depends upon the context of the situation.

Certain things are easier starting on downstrokes, and others on upstrokes. It totally depends upon the specifics of the notes and patterns you are playing.

Consider:

E |-8-7-5---------------|
B |--------8-7-5--------|
G |---------------------|
D |---------------------|
A |---------------------|
E |---------------------|

If you start this on an upstoke and continue alternate picking, then getting from the A to the G (changing strings moving down) you can use economy picking and play both of those notes with a downstroke. Makes it more efficient.

However:

E |-8-5-7-5-------------|
B |----------8-7-5------|
G |---------------------|
D |---------------------|
A |---------------------|
E |---------------------|

In this case starting with a downstroke makes getting from the A to the G easier with economy picking.

Also, certain situations might call for a heavier sound; use all downstrokes. Other situations might call for a lighter touch; use all upstrokes.

Make sense?

Everything depends upon context. :)

+1 Great advice