Playing without a pick

I seem to like the softer sound of strumming (an acoustic guitar) without a pick. But all the lessons seem to use a pick. Is it a problem if I choose not to during the course?

Originally Posted by: garthknowles

I seem to like the softer sound of strumming (an acoustic guitar) without a pick. But all the lessons seem to use a pick. Is it a problem if I choose not to during the course?

In a word; no. Not a problem at all. Currently I now play most often without a pick both electric and acoustic. Many great players throughout the history of rock skip the pick.

But..........

Spend time learning and playing with a pick. Often times people start learning guitar and find the pick a little awkward. Learn how to use and play with a pick. As you learn more, you'll find this it is a skill you will need.

I don't think it's a problem if it's because you don't like the sound. I think it's a style choice, if, like me ,you don't care for the sound of the pick. If it's just that it's awkward for you but you like the sound, then it seems like it's something to push past.

Originally Posted by: faith83

If it's just that it's awkward for you but you like the sound, then it seems like it's something to push pat.

I don't really know, but it seems likely that Pat could be upset by getting pushed. Just my opinion....

Originally Posted by: snojones

Originally Posted by: faith83

If it's just that it's awkward for you but you like the sound, then it seems like it's something to push pat.

I don't really know, but it seems likely that Pat could be upset by getting pushed. Just my opinion....

LOL -- post has been updated to reflect an anti-pat-pushing stance.

it's explained in some lessons.

Use fingers if that's your preference but as the lessons get more intricate the pick becomes more suitable.

Do it both ways. Learn how to use the pick and be able to finger strum.

I think Pat just stood down and went back to practicing the guitar.

Originally Posted by: snojones

I think Pat just stood down and went back to practicing the guitar.

You really can't keep a good Pat down....

TRUE, DAT!

Originally Posted by: garthknowles

I seem to like the softer sound of strumming (an acoustic guitar) without a pick. But all the lessons seem to use a pick. Is it a problem if I choose not to during the course?

[br]As others have said, you can, but you'll eventually want to learn to do both. Not only that, but as you progress, the lesson syllabus will require it unless you're going to stick only with a particular style and instrument.

It hasn't been mentioned that you can achieve a significantly softer more pleasing sound on an acoustic strumming with a pick by using an ultra-thin .38 nylon pick. Dunlop make them. Colour coded. .38 is white. I have the full Dunlop nylon range. They all offer a different dynamic feel and sound.

[br]Another way of altering tone to please in conjunction with that nylon pick is changing the strings you currently have fitted. Notably on a steel stringed acoustic, strings vary between bassy through bright, whilst others are warmer and balanced.

ManXCat I have those very same picks on order .

I'm stuggling to get a nice tone from my acoustic strumming especially upstrokes,

so much variation

and my string change will be to Martins 10-47

early days though

wooden picks certain types of wood have almost a tone like a thumb, you can upstroke easier

I use them on my archtop guitar and bone which is a little brighter,

you can reshape them when they wear down.

On the subject of picks or no picks I have one word.... JEFF BECK