How to Fingerpick a 12-String Guitar

Fingerpicking a 12-string guitar can seem like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. But fear not! With some patience and practice, you can master this rich, harmonious instrument. This guide covers everything from understanding the 12-string beast to developing fingerpicking patterns, ensuring that by the end, you’ll be ready to create beautiful, resonant music.

The Uniqueness of a 12-String Guitar

The 12-string guitar isn’t just a standard six-string with extra strings; it offers a completely different playing experience. The strings are paired in courses, with the lower four courses tuned in octaves and the top two in unison. This setup creates a fuller, richer sound, perfect for adding depth to your music. However, it also means you’ll need to adjust your playing style, especially when fingerpicking.

Why does this matter? Well, the doubled strings can make fingerpicking more challenging but also more rewarding. The sound is lush, and each pluck resonates with a fuller tone. Think of it like adding whipped cream to your hot chocolate—it takes something already great and elevates it to another level.

Choosing the Right Strings

Before you dive into fingerpicking, consider your choice of strings. 12-string guitars come with different string gauges, and the right choice can make your playing smoother and more enjoyable.

• Light Gauge: Easier to play and gentler on your fingers, but you might sacrifice some of the guitar’s natural resonance.
• Medium Gauge: Offers a balance between playability and sound. They’re great for fingerpicking, providing rich tones without being too hard on your fingers.
• Heavy Gauge: These strings give a powerful sound but require more finger strength. If you’re comfortable with heavier strings, they can offer a rewarding playing experience.

Remember, the right strings can make a noticeable difference. Experiment with different gauges to find what suits your style and comfort level.

Setting Up Your 12-String Guitar for Fingerpicking

Proper setup is crucial for fingerpicking on a 12-string guitar. The action (the height of the strings from the fretboard) should be comfortable enough to allow smooth finger movement. If the action is too high, it can tire your fingers quickly and make fingerpicking a chore. On the other hand, if it’s too low, you might encounter buzzing, especially when striking those octave strings.

Adjusting the truss rod can help in managing the neck relief, which in turn affects the action. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, consider taking your guitar to a skilled technician. It’s worth it for the comfort and playability you’ll gain.

And don’t overlook the tuning. With so many strings, tuning can be a bit of a task, but ensuring each string is perfectly tuned will make your fingerpicking sound clean and precise.

Basic Fingerpicking Patterns

When starting with fingerpicking on a 12-string guitar, it’s best to begin with basic patterns. These foundational patterns will build your confidence and enhance your technique over time. Let’s look at a couple of simple examples:

• Thumb and Fingers: Use your thumb for the bass notes on the lower strings (E, A, D) and your index, middle, and ring fingers for the upper strings (G, B, e). This separation of duties helps maintain rhythm and clarity.
• Travis Picking: This involves alternating the bass notes with your thumb while your fingers handle the melody on the higher strings. It’s a bit like patting your head and rubbing your belly—tricky at first, but immensely satisfying once you get it.

Practice these patterns slowly at first. Use a metronome to keep time, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable. This technique will help you develop precision and fluidity, crucial for handling the 12-string’s unique sound.

Developing Finger Independence

Finger independence is vital for fingerpicking, especially on a 12-string guitar. Each finger should be able to move independently, plucking its designated string without affecting others. This skill requires practice and patience but is key to achieving smooth, clean playing.

Try exercises that focus on isolating each finger. For instance, practice plucking with your index finger while keeping the others still, then switch to your middle finger, and so on. This might feel awkward initially, like trying to write with your non-dominant hand, but over time, your fingers will gain the dexterity needed for complex patterns.

At Riffhard, we offer lessons from top metal guitarists that emphasize finger independence, helping you tackle even the most intricate fingerpicking sequences.

Incorporating Dynamics in Your Playing

Dynamics bring your music to life, adding emotional depth and texture to your playing. On a 12-string guitar, this means varying your plucking strength to create contrast and interest. For example, you might play the bass notes more softly while emphasizing the melody to make it stand out.

Experiment with different plucking techniques to explore the range of sounds your guitar can produce. Use your nails to give notes a sharper attack or your fingertips for a softer, more rounded tone. By mixing these techniques, you can create a dynamic and expressive sound.

Remember, the goal is to make your playing as expressive as possible. Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover what makes your music feel alive.

Using Fingerpicks

Fingerpicks can be a game-changer for some players, offering a brighter, more pronounced sound. They’re small, claw-like devices that fit over your fingertips and thumb, allowing you to pluck the strings with more precision and volume.

However, using fingerpicks is a personal choice. Some players love the clarity and attack they provide, while others prefer the tactile feel of their fingers on the strings. If you decide to give fingerpicks a try, start by wearing them for short practice sessions to get used to the feel. They might feel strange at first, like wearing new shoes, but with time, they can become a valuable part of your playing toolkit.

Creating Your Fingerpicking Style

As you become more comfortable with fingerpicking on a 12-string guitar, you’ll naturally start to develop your unique style. This style is a reflection of your musical influences, technical skills, and personal preferences.

Listen to a variety of music and pay attention to how different guitarists use fingerpicking. Try to incorporate elements you like into your practice. Whether it’s the percussive style of a metal guitarist or the intricate patterns of a folk musician, there’s always something new to learn and integrate into your playing.

At Riffhard, we have lessons that explore different genres and techniques, helping you find inspiration and develop a style that’s uniquely yours.

Tips for Smooth Fingerpicking

Here are some practical tips to keep in mind as you hone your fingerpicking skills:

• Start Slow: Speed is impressive, but precision is key. Start slowly to ensure each note is clear and deliberate.
• Use a Metronome: This tool will help you maintain a steady rhythm, crucial for fingerpicking.
• Relax Your Hands: Tension can hinder your playing. Keep your hands relaxed and your movements fluid.
• Record Yourself: Listening to recordings of your practice sessions can highlight areas for improvement and track your progress.

Remember, practice doesn’t make perfect; it makes progress. Celebrate each small achievement along the way.

Final Thoughts

Fingerpicking a 12-string guitar is a journey of discovery and creativity. With dedication and practice, you’ll uncover the instrument’s rich, vibrant potential. If you want to dive deeper into fingerpicking techniques and explore the full range of what a 12-string guitar can offer, Riffhard provides lessons that cater to all levels, taught by some of the best guitarists in the metal genre.