I'm new to guitar. Spent most of my time playing piano. I'm having issues keeping the guitar (acoustic) close to my body, when i play open strings. As soon as I go to play an open string, the neck will shift forward (away from my body). I have a guitar strap, but it doesn't seem to help the issue much. I just figured I would ask what I'm doing wrong, before I go much further with bad habits.
Thank you.
Helllo! Sounds like you might be pushing into the body of the guitar with your right forearm / elbow. Try resting your arm more lightly on the top corner of the guitar body instead of pushing inward and squeezing. The guitar should be in a stable but relaxed and balanced position on your lap regardless of what the left hand is doing.
Let us know if that helps!
-Carl.
Carl King[br]GuitarTricks Video Director / Producer
Thank you! I will give that a try. It seems like it has gotten better, the more I have practiced, but it does seem like maybe I am putting a little extra weight on it. I will let you know how it goes!
I have the same issue. I have only been practicing for a month and it is better than it was initially. I thought the neck was swinging out from the back pressure of my thumb when the chord is released. But, maybe it is the way my arm is on the body of the guitar.
