How to Fingerpick Guitar Chords

Fingerpicking guitar chords can open up a whole new world of sound and texture in your playing. If you’re used to strumming or picking with a plectrum, introducing your fingers into the mix might feel like learning a new language. Don’t worry, though—this is a language that’s worth learning and, with some practice, it will transform your playing. Let’s break down the process into manageable steps and have some fun with it.

Why Fingerpicking?

Fingerpicking isn’t just for folk or classical guitarists. It’s a technique that can add depth and complexity to any style, including the heavy and intricate sounds of metal. The ability to control each string individually provides a level of precision and expression that a pick can’t always deliver. Whether you’re looking to bring a new dimension to your rhythm playing or add some finesse to your leads, fingerpicking is a tool worth having in your arsenal.

Think of it as painting with more colors. Each finger can strike a different string, allowing for intricate patterns and rhythms that are impossible with a pick alone. Plus, it’s a great way to develop your coordination and finger independence. And let’s be real, it just looks cool.

Getting Comfortable with Your Hand Position

Before you start picking, you need to get your hand into the right position. This might feel a bit awkward at first, especially if you’re used to holding a pick all the time. Your thumb should hover over the bass strings (E, A, and D), while your index, middle, and ring fingers should be ready to tackle the G, B, and high E strings, respectively.

Here’s a little tip: imagine you’re holding a ball in your hand. Keep your fingers curved as if they’re wrapped around that ball, and try to keep your wrist relaxed. Tension is the enemy here—it’ll make your fingers slow and clumsy. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your hand feels comfortable and ready to move.

Starting Simple: Basic Patterns

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Before jumping into complex patterns, it’s wise to start with the basics. One of the simplest and most used fingerpicking patterns is the “PIMA” pattern. Here’s the breakdown:

• P: Thumb – Plays the bass notes (E, A, or D strings).
• I: Index – Plays the G string.
• M: Middle – Plays the B string.
• A: Ring – Plays the high E string.

Try this pattern with a simple chord progression like C, G, Am, and F. Play each chord for a bar, using the PIMA pattern to pick through the strings. It might feel a bit robotic at first, but as you practice, focus on getting each note clear and even. Slow and steady wins this race.

Adding Some Flair: Alternating Bass Notes

Once you’re comfortable with the basic PIMA pattern, it’s time to spice things up a bit. One way to add some flavor to your fingerpicking is by alternating the bass notes. This means your thumb will switch between two strings instead of sticking to just one.

For example, if you’re playing a C chord, you might start with your thumb on the A string, then move it to the D string on the next beat. This alternating bass creates a more dynamic sound and gives your playing a sense of movement.

It might take a little while to get used to moving your thumb independently from your fingers, but keep at it. Try practicing with a metronome to help keep your timing solid. If you’re ever feeling stuck, Riffhard offers lessons that can help you work on these techniques with guidance from some of the best metal guitarists out there.

Exploring Dynamics: Soft and Loud

Fingerpicking gives you direct control over the dynamics of your playing. You can play softer or louder simply by adjusting how hard you pluck the strings. This control can add a ton of expression to your music.

Try playing through a chord progression and experiment with different dynamics. Start softly, then gradually increase your volume as you go. Or try accenting specific beats to create a rhythmic emphasis. These subtle changes can make a world of difference in how your playing is perceived.

One exercise to work on dynamics is to play through your fingerpicking pattern and consciously change the volume of each note. Focus on making the thumb notes louder while keeping the finger notes softer, or vice versa. This will give you a more balanced sound and help you develop a nuanced touch.

Incorporating Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

If you want to add even more texture to your fingerpicking, consider incorporating hammer-ons and pull-offs. These techniques allow you to add notes without picking them, creating a smoother, more fluid sound.

For example, try playing a simple Am chord. Pick the A string with your thumb, then use your index finger to pluck the D string. While the D string is still ringing, use your pinky to hammer-on the second fret of the D string. This creates a new note without having to pick it again.

Pull-offs work in a similar way, but in reverse. Play a note, then “pull off” your finger to sound a lower note on the same string. These techniques can add a lot of flavor to your playing and are particularly effective in adding a legato feel to your fingerpicked passages.

And if you’re eager to see how the pros do it, Riffhard has lessons that cover these techniques in depth, taught by some of the most respected metal guitarists.

Creating Your Own Patterns

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to start crafting your own fingerpicking patterns. This is where the fun really begins. Start by experimenting with different combinations of strings and fingers. Mix up the order, try skipping strings, or even double up on a finger for a specific note.

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules here. The goal is to find patterns that sound good to you and fit the style of music you’re playing. Don’t be afraid to try something unconventional—it might just become your signature sound.

One exercise to try is to take a chord progression you like and play it through several times, each time using a different pattern. This will help you discover what works and what doesn’t, and it will also keep things interesting for your listeners.

Building Speed and Precision

As with any guitar technique, building speed and precision takes time and practice. Start slow, focusing on getting each note clear and even. Use a metronome to gradually increase your speed, but don’t rush it. Accuracy is more important than speed, especially when you’re just starting out.

One way to build speed is to practice short bursts of notes, gradually increasing the tempo. Start by playing a simple pattern at a comfortable speed, then push yourself to play it a little faster. This method can help you build muscle memory and increase your finger strength over time.

And remember, if you’re looking for structured practice routines, Riffhard offers a wealth of lessons and exercises to help you develop your speed and precision, all taught by experienced metal guitarists.

Practicing Consistently

As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. Consistency is key when it comes to developing any new skill. Set aside some dedicated practice time each day, even if it’s just 15 minutes. The more you practice, the more natural fingerpicking will become.

Try incorporating fingerpicking into your regular practice routine. Play through your favorite songs using fingerpicking patterns, or create your own exercises to work on specific techniques. The more you play, the more comfortable you’ll become.

And don’t be discouraged if progress seems slow at first. Learning a new technique takes time, but with persistence and patience, you’ll see improvement. Keep pushing yourself, and most importantly, have fun with it!

Final Thoughts

Fingerpicking guitar chords can add a whole new dimension to your playing, offering more control, expression, and creativity. Whether you’re into metal, folk, or anything in between, this technique is worth exploring. And if you’re looking for more guidance, Riffhard has lessons from top metal guitarists to help you develop your skills further. Happy picking!