How to Know Which Hand to Play Guitar With

Choosing which hand to play guitar with might seem straightforward, but for many beginners, it can feel like a bit of a puzzle. Whether you're left-handed, right-handed, or somewhere in between, finding the right playing hand can significantly impact your guitar journey. Let's dive into the considerations that can help you make the best choice, ensuring you start on a path that's both comfortable and productive.

Understanding Hand Dominance

First things first, let's talk about hand dominance. Most people are either right-handed or left-handed, but there are some who are ambidextrous. Knowing your dominant hand can be a good starting point for deciding which hand to strum with and which to fret with.

For right-handed players, the right hand typically handles strumming or picking, while the left hand takes care of fretting. This setup is the norm and is what most guitarists use. But what about left-handed players? Should they simply mirror the right-handed setup, or is there more to consider?

• Left-Handed Guitars: If you're left-handed, you might opt for a left-handed guitar. These guitars are essentially the mirror image of right-handed guitars, allowing you to strum with your left hand and fret with your right.
• Playing Right-Handed: Some left-handed individuals choose to play right-handed guitars. This option can be beneficial since right-handed guitars are more widely available, and you won't have to restring or modify them.

Interestingly enough, some famous left-handed guitarists, like Jimi Hendrix, played right-handed guitars flipped upside down. This approach gave Hendrix a unique sound and style, but it also came with challenges. Ultimately, the choice depends on what feels most comfortable for you.

Comfort and Natural Feel

Comfort is king when it comes to choosing the right hand to play guitar with. Your guitar should feel like an extension of yourself, not an awkward tool you're trying to tame. Spend some time holding the guitar in both orientations and see which feels more natural.

Here's a simple test: Pick up a guitar and try strumming with both hands. Which way feels more intuitive? Don't overthink it—go with your gut.

• Fretting Hand: The fingers on your fretting hand need to be nimble and strong to press down on the strings effectively. Try some basic chord shapes and see which hand feels more capable.
• Picking Hand: Your picking or strumming hand should feel relaxed and agile. Experiment with different picking techniques to gauge comfort levels.

Remember, there's no right or wrong answer here. It's all about what feels right to you. If you're still unsure, consider borrowing guitars from friends or visiting a music store to try out different setups.

The Influence of Musical Goals

Your musical goals can also influence which hand to play guitar with. Are you aiming to shred like a metal god, or are you more interested in strumming along to folk tunes? Different styles of music can place varying demands on your hands.

• Rhythm Guitar: If your passion lies in rhythm guitar, focus on which hand feels more comfortable handling the strumming or picking. Tight rhythm playing is crucial for metal genres, where precision and speed are key.
• Lead Guitar: If you're drawn to lead guitar, consider which hand offers better dexterity for intricate solos and fast runs. Your fretting hand will be doing a lot of the heavy lifting in this scenario.

At Riffhard, we understand the unique demands of modern metal guitar playing. Our lessons cater to both rhythm and lead guitarists, providing insights from some of the world's best metal musicians. Whether you're strumming or shredding, our instructors offer guidance tailored to your goals.

Overcoming Challenges and Biases

It's not uncommon for left-handed players to feel like they're at a disadvantage, given the prevalence of right-handed guitars. But don't let that discourage you! Many left-handed guitarists have thrived by adapting to right-handed instruments or even modifying their guitars.

Here's a fun fact: Paul McCartney, the legendary left-handed bassist of The Beatles, initially learned to play on a right-handed guitar. He later switched to a left-handed bass, but his early experiences helped shape his unique style.

• Adaptability: Embrace the challenge of playing in a non-dominant setup. This adaptability can enhance your overall musicianship and creative thinking.
• Unique Sound: Sometimes, playing in an unconventional way can lead to a distinctive sound. Embrace your uniqueness and let it shine in your music.

At Riffhard, we celebrate diversity in playing styles. Our lessons are designed to accommodate different approaches, helping you find your voice as a guitarist.

The Role of Practice and Persistence

Regardless of which hand you choose, practice is the key to improvement. Your initial choice might feel awkward, but with dedication and persistence, your skills will develop over time.

Here's a simple practice tip: Start with short, focused practice sessions. Gradually increase the duration as you build strength and confidence. Consistency is more important than marathon practice sessions.

• Warm-Ups: Begin each practice session with warm-up exercises to prepare your hands and fingers. This helps prevent injuries and improves dexterity.
• Scales and Chords: Work on scales and chords to build muscle memory and finger strength. These foundational exercises will pay dividends as you progress.

At Riffhard, we offer structured practice routines to help you make the most of your practice time. Our interactive lessons are designed to keep you engaged and motivated on your guitar journey.

Experimenting with Different Styles

Don't be afraid to experiment with different playing styles and techniques. The guitar is a versatile instrument that can adapt to various genres, from metal to jazz to blues.

• Metal Techniques: If you're drawn to metal, explore techniques like palm muting, alternate picking, and sweep picking. These techniques can add depth and aggression to your playing.
• Cross-Genre Exploration: Try incorporating elements from different genres into your playing. This experimentation can lead to unique and exciting musical ideas.

Our lessons at Riffhard cover a wide range of techniques, ensuring you have the tools you need to explore different styles and find your musical voice.

The Importance of Equipment

While your hands play a crucial role in your guitar journey, don't overlook the importance of your equipment. The right guitar and gear can enhance your playing experience and make learning more enjoyable.

• Choosing the Right Guitar: Consider factors like body shape, neck profile, and pickup configuration. A guitar that feels comfortable and suits your style can make a significant difference.
• Amplification and Effects: Experiment with different amplifiers and effects to find the tones that inspire you. Metal guitarists often use high-gain amps and effects like distortion and delay.

At Riffhard, we understand the importance of gear in shaping your sound. Our lessons provide insights into equipment choices, ensuring you have the right tools for the job.

Learning from Others

One of the best ways to grow as a guitarist is to learn from others. Whether it's through formal lessons, online tutorials, or jamming with friends, the insights you gain from fellow musicians can be invaluable.

• Seek Out Mentors: Find experienced guitarists who can offer guidance and feedback. Their expertise can help you overcome challenges and reach new heights.
• Join Communities: Engage with online guitar communities and forums. These platforms provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and share knowledge.

At Riffhard, we offer lessons from some of the world's best metal guitarists. Our instructors share their expertise and experiences, helping you become a more well-rounded musician.

Embracing Your Unique Style

Ultimately, your guitar journey is about finding your unique style and voice. Don't be afraid to experiment, take risks, and embrace your individuality.

• Play What You Love: Focus on the music that resonates with you. Whether it's crushing metal riffs or soulful blues solos, let your passion guide your playing.
• Break the Mold: Don't feel constrained by traditional norms or expectations. If you discover a new way to play that works for you, go for it!

At Riffhard, we encourage you to explore your creativity and develop your unique style. Our lessons provide the tools and inspiration you need to express yourself through music.

Final Thoughts

Choosing which hand to play guitar with is an important step in your musical journey, but it's just the beginning. As you explore, practice, and learn, you'll find that the guitar becomes an extension of yourself. At Riffhard, we provide the resources and support to help you thrive as a guitarist, no matter which hand you choose.