The way that notes are produced on the guitar is that pressure is applied to a string at a
point near the frets,causing a shortening of the string length that vibrates and finally a
change in pitch.
On the simplest level you need only apply enough pressure to push down the string to
produce the note. Any more will not effect the note. In fact it may make the note HARDER to
produce.
So only press enough to produce a clear note. Remember to keep your fingers near the frets and you won’tneed to press very hard. If you press harder you will fatigue your hands and as a result you won’t be able to change notes as quickly. Plus you won’tbe able to play as long as if your hands aren’t tired.
Here’s an exercise to discover exactly how much pressure you need to produce a note:
Steps:
1) Place your finger on the 1st string just behind the 3rd fret. Don’t apply any pressure yet.
2) Gently pick the string, it should sound muted.
3) Keep picking the string as you slowly apply pressure to it.
4) When you hear a clear note stop pressing but keep picking. You shouldn’t be pressing very hard.
So now you have found the least amount of pressure it takes for you to produce a note.
Pressing any more than that is just wasting energy.
Hope this one helps you save a little effort.
-Bob
So many things to think about when do we have a chance to play?
Thanks for the comment Kim! If it fits your personality, I always recommend putting together a little schedule or list of things that you intent to practice when you sit down with your instrument. I always like to tell people “Practicing is playing”… just a little more structured with goals in mind!
I thought I was slow until I read some of your posted responses. Duh !
Hey Clinton… Everyone certainly learns at their own pace… While learning to play faster is certainly fun and exciting, it is something that everyone progresses at difference paces so the best thing to do is stick to a steady practice routine and make sure you are pushing yourself to try and play faster.
Hi Bob,
You say the first string I thought the sixth string being thicker on my Acoustic would be more beneficial.
Thankyou great lesson.
Keith
Hey Keith, the best response would be to do it on both :)
The thicker strings definitely react different to pressure and the amount you need to apply to get a good tone so take the basic idea of the lesson and apply it to all the strings!
Thanks. My old hands can really use this tip.
You got it Richard! Keep those fingers moving :)
Mike D