Originally Posted by: garthknowlesI 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.