How to Alternate Pick on the Guitar

Alternate picking is like the secret sauce that can transform your guitar playing from basic to brilliant, especially if you’re diving into the world of heavy riffs and blazing solos. It’s all about using both downstrokes and upstrokes in a continuous motion, which helps you play faster and more efficiently. In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of alternate picking, provide practical tips, and explore how it fits into various metal subgenres.

Why Alternate Picking is a Game-Changer

Alternate picking isn’t just a technical skill; it’s a gateway to a whole new level of guitar playing. By alternating your pick strokes, you can achieve a more fluid and dynamic sound, crucial for metal genres where speed and precision are everything. Think of it as the difference between walking and sprinting. With alternate picking, those blazing fast runs become much more achievable.

One of the biggest benefits is efficiency. By using both upstrokes and downstrokes, you’re essentially cutting your workload in half. This not only conserves energy but also allows for faster tempos. Whether you’re working through a thrash metal riff or a complex progressive metal solo, alternate picking can help you maintain clarity and articulation.

But it’s not just about speed. Alternate picking also opens up new rhythmic possibilities. It enables you to play more intricate patterns and syncopations, which are essential for genres like djent and metalcore. So if you’re aiming to broaden your musical horizons, mastering this technique is a must.

Getting Comfortable with Your Pick

Before you start shredding, let’s talk about the tool in your hand: the pick. It might seem trivial, but the type of pick you use can significantly affect your alternate picking technique. Generally, a medium to heavy pick works best for alternate picking because it offers more control and stability.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing your pick:

• Thickness: A thicker pick (around 1.0 mm or more) provides better grip and precision, which is vital for fast alternate picking.
• Shape: A pick with a sharper tip can help you navigate between strings more easily.
• Material: Nylon or Delrin picks offer a smooth feel and less pick noise, which is crucial when playing at high speeds.

Once you’ve got the right pick, hold it between your thumb and index finger. Keep your grip firm but relaxed. Tension in your hand can lead to fatigue and hinder your speed. It’s all about finding a balance between control and flexibility.

Perfecting Your Picking Hand Position

Your picking hand position can make or break your alternate picking technique. Ideally, your wrist should be slightly above the strings, with your hand hovering over the bridge. This position allows for maximum range of motion while keeping your movements economical.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Wrist Motion: Focus on moving your wrist rather than your entire arm. This reduces fatigue and increases speed.
• Anchor Point: Some players find it helpful to anchor their pinky or palm on the guitar body for added stability.
• Relaxation: Keep your hand relaxed to avoid tension, which can slow you down and cause strain.

Experiment with different positions until you find one that feels natural and allows for fluid motion. Remember, consistency is key. Practicing with the same hand position will help you develop muscle memory and improve your accuracy over time.

The Basics of Alternate Picking

Now that we’ve got the setup out of the way, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of alternate picking. The fundamental concept is simple: alternate between downstrokes and upstrokes. But executing it smoothly takes practice.

Here’s a basic exercise to get you started:

E|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
B|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
G|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
D|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
A|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|-----------------|
E|-0---0---0---0---|-0---0---0---0---|-0---0---0---0---|-0---0---0---0---|

Start slow and focus on keeping your pick strokes even and consistent. Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the speed. The goal is to play cleanly and accurately, even at higher speeds.

Once you’ve got the hang of single-string alternate picking, try incorporating string changes. This will help you develop the coordination needed for more complex riffs and solos. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if it takes time to get it right.

Incorporating Dynamics and Accents

One of the most exciting aspects of alternate picking is the ability to add dynamics and accents to your playing. By varying the intensity of your pick strokes, you can create a more expressive and engaging sound.

Here’s how you can experiment with dynamics:

• Volume Control: Play with the strength of your pick strokes to create softer or louder notes. This can add depth and emotion to your playing.
• Accents: Emphasize certain notes within a phrase to create a rhythmic pattern. This is especially useful for adding groove to metal riffs.
• Palm Muting: Combine alternate picking with palm muting for a tight, percussive sound. This technique is often used in thrash and metalcore.

Remember, dynamics are what make your playing feel alive. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your unique voice through alternate picking.

Applying Alternate Picking to Metal Subgenres

Alternate picking is a versatile technique that can be adapted to various metal subgenres. Each style has its own unique flavor, and mastering alternate picking can help you capture the essence of each one.

Here’s how alternate picking fits into different metal genres:

• Thrash Metal: Known for its fast, aggressive riffs, thrash metal relies heavily on alternate picking for speed and precision. Think of bands like Metallica and Slayer, where alternate picking is a staple.
• Progressive Metal: This genre often features intricate rhythms and time signatures. Alternate picking allows for the fluid execution of complex patterns, making it essential for bands like Dream Theater and Opeth.
• Djent: Characterized by its syncopated riffs and low-tuned guitars, djent requires precise alternate picking to achieve its signature sound. Bands like Periphery and Meshuggah often incorporate this technique.

By understanding how alternate picking is used in different metal subgenres, you can tailor your practice to match the style you’re aiming for. This will not only improve your technique but also expand your musical vocabulary.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Like any new skill, alternate picking comes with its own set of challenges. But don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are some common hurdles and tips on how to overcome them:

• String Noise: Unwanted noise can be a big issue, especially at high speeds. Focus on muting unused strings with your fretting hand or palm to keep your playing clean.
• Inconsistent Timing: Use a metronome to develop a strong sense of timing. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
• Fatigue: If your hand gets tired quickly, take breaks during practice sessions to avoid strain. Building endurance takes time, so be patient with yourself.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks. With persistence and dedication, you’ll overcome these challenges and become a better guitarist.

Practicing Alternate Picking: Tips and Tricks

Effective practice is the key to mastering alternate picking. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of your practice sessions:

• Use a Metronome: A metronome is your best friend when it comes to developing timing and precision. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
• Focus on Cleanliness: Prioritize accuracy over speed. It’s better to play slowly and cleanly than fast and sloppy. Once you have the technique down, you can work on increasing your speed.
• Break It Down: If a riff or solo feels overwhelming, break it down into smaller sections. Practice each part individually before putting it all together.

Remember, consistency is key. Set aside regular practice time each day, even if it’s just a few minutes. Over time, you’ll see significant improvements in your alternate picking technique.

How Riffhard Can Help You Master Alternate Picking

If you’re serious about taking your alternate picking to the next level, consider checking out Riffhard. Our platform offers lessons from some of the best metal guitarists in the world, covering a wide range of techniques, including alternate picking.

With over 150 video lessons and downloadable tabs, you’ll have all the resources you need to enhance your skills. Plus, our custom metronome and interactive player make practicing more effective and enjoyable.

So, if you’re ready to elevate your guitar playing, Riffhard is the perfect place to start.

Final Thoughts

Alternate picking is a fundamental technique that can transform your guitar playing, especially in metal genres. By focusing on efficiency, dynamics, and precision, you’ll unlock new levels of speed and expression. And if you’re looking for expert guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists to help you achieve your musical goals. Happy shredding!