Description
In this tutorial we're going to learn the basics of using a thumbpick.
This style of playing originated from players as far back as Mose Rager who learned it from a man in the coal mines of Kentucky. He then passed it to many other players in his neck of the woods including Merle Travis, who popularized it. Which is why it's often known as Travis Picking. Later Chet Atkins who produced artists like Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley got a hold of this style and took it even further, then we fast forward up to today where a guitarist named Tommy Emmanuel learned from Chet and took it even further, and if you know of Tommy you know he's one of the best guitarists to walk the planet.
We're going to go back to the basics and learn proper hand position, technique and motor skills for thumbpicking. We'll learn exercises and then compile it all into a mini song at the end! If you don’t have a thumbpick, feel free to go get one at your local music store or start practicing without one, that’s ok. But in order to really get that thumpy bass sound you’re going to want to get one for sure! Make sure it fits your thumb well. Choose one that’s on the small side so it’s extremely tight. We don’t want it flying off or moving around while playing!
Lesson Info
