Finger pressure

I have had a problem, always, of using to much pressure when I'm fretting. If I remind myself not to do it, I'm ok for a little while but just end up doing it again. I'd really like to fix this problem. It slows me down and is causing pain in my joints. Can anyone help me here? I'd really appreciate it.

Originally Posted by: spheinrich6I have had a problem, always, of using to much pressure when I'm fretting. If I remind myself not to do it, I'm ok for a little while but just end up doing it again. I'd really like to fix this problem. It slows me down and is causing pain in my joints. Can anyone help me here? I'd really appreciate it.

What do you mean, pressure? Like, pressing too hard on the frets? Please elaborate.

Yea I press down really hard on the strings. More than I know is necessary.

As you already know the problem, you can start to fix it. Observe your finger pressure all the time when playing. Do practice routines to find out the least amount of muscle strength possible to have a fretted pitch(es) to ring out cleanly. Remember to relax fingers after every note.

Originally Posted by: spheinrich6Yea I press down really hard on the strings. More than I know is necessary.

I'm afraid the only solution to this is to ease up intentionally.

Also, do you notice a difference between playing standing up or sitting down? Like, is it worse one way or the other?

I think I might press down a little harder when I'm standing but it's easier to make chords and reach higher on the fretboard when I'm standing.

Try make a practice session playing scale.. Play as lightly as possible. Nothing but focus on how light you can do it and still get a clear note.. Then do your lesson where you get to that problem.. As soon as the problem arises, go back to your light touch practice.. Make sure you are no getting tense in the area that the problem occurs..
I once new a fellow that would start strumming normal then get going faster the harder he play.. He would start curling into a ball get so red he would like he would explode.. Now that is tense.. or intense.. Hope you work it out..

try playing with out placing your thumb on the back of the neck. run threw a few scales and chords. make it part of your warm up it will get you to use less pressure.

Originally Posted by: compart1Try make a practice session playing scale.. Play as lightly as possible. Nothing but focus on how light you can do it and still get a clear note.. Then do your lesson where you get to that problem.. As soon as the problem arises, go back to your light touch practice.. Make sure you are no getting tense in the area that the problem occurs..
I once new a fellow that would start strumming normal then get going faster the harder he play.. He would start curling into a ball get so red he would like he would explode.. Now that is tense.. or intense.. Hope you work it out..

Sometimes I'll do this with chords. I'll spend a certain amount of time practicing specifically for finger pressure. As I've done it consistently, my fingers start to remember the right pressure. It does take time though.

What exactly do you mean by pressure?
Kindly elaborate.