How to Double Pick a Guitar

Double picking can be the secret sauce that transforms your guitar playing from average to jaw-droppingly awesome. This technique isn’t just about speed; it’s about precision, dynamics, and control. Whether you’re shredding through a metal solo or laying down a tight rhythm, mastering double picking can open up a world of possibilities. Let’s break it down step by step, so you can start incorporating it into your playing with confidence.

The Basics of Double Picking

Double picking, often referred to as alternate picking, involves striking the string with a pick in a continuous up-and-down motion. This technique is foundational for playing fast passages cleanly and efficiently. It’s like the engine of a high-performance car—once you get it running smoothly, you can really put the pedal to the metal.

Why is it important? Well, think about playing a riff or a solo that requires rapid succession of notes. Without double picking, you’d be stuck using downstrokes, which can be tiring and inefficient. By alternating your strokes, you distribute the workload evenly, allowing for faster and more fluid playing.

Here’s a simple exercise to get you started:

• Pick a single open string, like the low E string.
• Start with a downstroke, then follow it with an upstroke.
• Keep it slow and steady, aiming for an even sound between the down and up strokes.
• Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.

Consistency is key. Focus on maintaining an even rhythm and volume between strokes. This will help you build a solid foundation for more complex patterns.

Perfecting Your Pick Grip

The way you hold your pick can greatly influence your ability to double pick effectively. Imagine trying to write with a pencil held between your thumb and pinky—awkward, right? Similarly, a poor pick grip can hinder your playing.

Here’s how to find a comfortable and effective pick grip:

• Hold the pick between your thumb and the side of your index finger.
• Keep the pick angle relatively flat against the strings; too much angle can cause it to snag.
• Maintain a relaxed grip. Tension is your enemy here.
• Let the pick protrude just enough to hit the strings without getting stuck.

Experiment with different pick thicknesses and shapes to find what feels best for you. Some players swear by thin picks for their flexibility, while others prefer thicker picks for their stability. There’s no right or wrong—just what feels right for you.

Optimizing Picking Hand Movement

Next up is your picking hand movement. When you’re double picking, it’s crucial to minimize unnecessary motion. Think of it like trying to run in place as fast as possible—small, efficient movements will let you go faster.

Here are some tips to dial in your picking hand technique:

• Use your wrist as the primary source of movement. Avoid excessive arm motion, which can tire you out quickly.
• Keep your wrist relaxed and fluid, almost like you’re shaking water off your hand.
• Anchor your picking hand by lightly resting your pinky or palm on the guitar body for stability.
• Avoid tense shoulders or a rigid arm—relaxation aids speed and precision.

Practice with a metronome to ensure your timing is spot on. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more confident.

Integrating Double Picking into Riffs

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to incorporate double picking into your playing. Start with simple riffs and gradually move to more complex patterns. If you’re into metal, this is where the fun begins!

Try this simple riff exercise:

e|--------------------------------|
B|--------------------------------|
G|--------------------------------|
D|--------------------------------|
A|--2-2-4-4-5-5-4-4---------------|
E|--------------------------------|

Focus on maintaining evenness between the upstrokes and downstrokes. As you get comfortable, increase the speed while keeping the sound clean and precise.

For a deeper dive into riff integration, Riffhard offers lessons with some of the best metal guitarists who can show you how to seamlessly incorporate double picking into your metal riffs.

Dealing with String Noise

As you speed up, you might notice some unwanted string noise. This is a common hurdle, but with practice, you can minimize it. Imagine trying to have a conversation in a noisy room—distracting, right? String noise can have the same effect on your playing.

Here are some strategies to keep it under control:

• Use the palm of your picking hand to lightly mute the strings you’re not playing. This will help prevent them from ringing out.
• Practice muting with your fretting hand as well. Use the side of your fingers to lightly touch unused strings.
• Focus on clean fretting technique to prevent accidental string contact.

Noise reduction is an ongoing process, and it’s something that even experienced players continuously refine.

Rhythmic Variations and Dynamics

Double picking isn’t just about speed; it’s also about expression. By varying your picking dynamics, you can add a whole new dimension to your playing. Think of it as adding seasoning to your cooking—just the right amount can elevate the entire dish.

Experiment with these ideas:

• Accent certain notes by picking them slightly harder.
• Introduce rhythmic variations by changing the speed or pattern of your picking.
• Incorporate palm muting for a more percussive effect.

Dynamics can transform a straightforward riff into something much more interesting and engaging. Listen to your favorite players and notice how they use dynamics to make their riffs stand out.

Building Speed and Stamina

Speed is often the name of the game, especially in metal genres. But building speed requires patience and persistence. It’s like training for a marathon—you can’t just expect to sprint the entire distance without proper preparation.

Here’s a routine to help you build speed:

• Start with a metronome set to a comfortable tempo.
• Focus on maintaining clean and even strokes as you gradually increase the tempo.
• Incorporate short bursts of faster playing to gradually push your limits.

Remember, speed should never come at the expense of accuracy. It’s better to play slower and cleanly than fast and sloppy. Riffhard has a custom metronome designed specifically for guitar practice, which can be a valuable tool in your quest for speed.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Like any skill, double picking has its pitfalls. Recognizing and correcting these common mistakes can save you a lot of frustration down the road. It’s like learning to drive—knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.

Here are some common pitfalls:

• Picking too hard: This can lead to fatigue and inconsistent sound. Aim for a relaxed and controlled picking motion.
• Ignoring timing: Speed means nothing if you’re not in time. Use a metronome religiously.
• Overlooking relaxation: Tension in your hands and arms can hinder your progress. Stay relaxed and fluid.

By being mindful of these mistakes, you can ensure more efficient practice sessions and faster improvement.

Double Picking in Different Genres

While double picking is often associated with metal, it’s a versatile technique that can enhance your playing across various styles. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife in your guitar toolkit—ready to tackle any musical challenge.

For example:

• Bluegrass: Fast, intricate runs and melodies often rely heavily on alternate picking.
• Jazz: Quick, complex lines can benefit from the fluidity of double picking.
• Rock: Riffs and solos can gain clarity and punch with well-executed alternate picking.

Explore different genres and see how double picking can fit into your playing style. You might find new inspiration and ideas that you can incorporate into your own music.

Final Thoughts

Double picking is a game-changer for guitarists looking to add speed, precision, and versatility to their playing. By focusing on technique, dynamics, and consistency, you can unlock a whole new level of expression on your instrument. And if you’re looking to take your skills even further, Riffhard offers incredible resources and lessons from world-class guitarists that can guide you on your journey. Keep practicing, stay patient, and enjoy the process of becoming a better player.