How to Pick Up a Guitar

So, you've got a shiny new guitar sitting in the corner of your room, and it's time to get acquainted. Picking up a guitar might seem simple—just grab it, right? But there's more to it than just lifting the instrument. This is where posture, grip, and even mindset come into play. Let's explore how to properly pick up a guitar and get you strumming those killer riffs with confidence.

Choosing the Right Guitar for You

Before you even lift a guitar, it’s crucial to ensure you’ve got the right one. Your choice will depend largely on the style of music you’re interested in playing. For metal enthusiasts, an electric guitar is typically the go-to. These guitars often feature humbucker pickups, which produce a thicker sound—perfect for those chugging riffs and screaming solos.

When selecting a guitar, consider comfort and playability. A guitar that feels good in your hands will be more enjoyable to play. Try different neck shapes to see which fits your grip best. If you're into metal subgenres like djent or progressive metal, you might prefer a guitar with more frets or a longer scale length for those extended range techniques.

Price can be a factor, but remember, you don’t need the most expensive guitar to start. Many affordable models offer great quality for beginners. Brands like Ibanez, ESP, and Jackson offer options that are both budget-friendly and suitable for metal.

Understanding Guitar Anatomy

Knowing your guitar’s anatomy helps you understand how to handle it properly. Let’s break down the basics:

• Body: The main part of the guitar, where the strings and pickups are located. This is where all the magic happens.
• Neck: The long, thin part where you’ll be placing your left hand (for right-handed players). It’s crucial for shredding solos or laying down those heavy riffs.
• Headstock: Located at the end of the neck, this is where the tuning pegs are found. Keeping your guitar in tune is key to sounding good.
• Bridge: Where the strings are anchored on the body. It affects the guitar's intonation and action.

Getting familiar with these parts will help you make adjustments and repairs as needed. Plus, it’s always impressive to speak the lingo with fellow guitarists!

Picking Up the Guitar: Proper Technique

Now, onto the actual task of picking up your guitar. It might sound straightforward, but ensuring you do it correctly will help prevent injury and keep your guitar safe from damage.

Start by standing next to your guitar and bending your knees slightly. Grip the neck firmly but gently with your dominant hand. Use your other hand to support the body of the guitar. Lift it smoothly, keeping your back straight to avoid strain.

For those who prefer to sit while playing, make sure your chair is at the right height. Your thighs should be parallel to the ground, and the guitar should rest comfortably on your dominant leg. If you’re playing electric, a strap can help support the weight.

Posture: The Secret to Playing Comfortably

Good posture is essential for playing guitar effectively and comfortably, especially if you're planning to play for extended periods. Here are some tips:

• Sit or stand up straight: Avoid slouching to prevent back and shoulder pain.
• Keep your shoulders relaxed: Tension can hinder your playing ability and lead to fatigue.
• Position the guitar correctly: The neck should be angled slightly upwards, making it easier to reach all frets.
• Use a footstool if needed: This can help with balance and positioning when sitting.

Remember, the goal is to feel relaxed and in control, whether you’re sitting or standing. This will not only improve your playing but also make practice sessions more enjoyable.

How to Hold the Pick

Holding the pick correctly is another vital aspect of playing guitar. It might feel awkward at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

First, choose a pick that feels comfortable. For metal guitarists, thicker picks (around 1.0mm or more) are often preferred for their durability and precise attack.

To hold the pick, place it between your thumb and index finger. Your thumb should be on one side, with your index finger on the other, forming a slight angle. The pick should protrude slightly beyond your fingers.

Experiment with different grips to find what works best for you. Some players prefer a firmer grip for aggressive playing, while others opt for a looser hold for more fluid motion.

Getting Comfortable with Basic Chords

Once you’re comfortable holding the guitar and pick, it’s time to dive into playing. Starting with basic chords is a great way to build finger strength and familiarity with the fretboard.

For metal guitarists, power chords are essential. These are simplified chords that use only two or three strings. They’re easy to move around the neck and are the foundation of many metal riffs.

Practice transitioning between chords smoothly. Use a metronome to help keep time and build speed gradually. As you become more comfortable, try incorporating palm muting for that classic metal sound.

Developing Your Strumming and Picking Technique

Strumming and picking are fundamental techniques for any guitarist. Here’s how to get started:

• Alternate Picking: This involves using both downstrokes and upstrokes. It’s essential for speed and precision, especially in metal genres.
• Palm Muting: Rest the edge of your picking hand lightly on the strings near the bridge. This technique produces a muted, percussive sound that’s perfect for rhythmic playing.
• Downpicking: This technique uses only downstrokes and is common in thrash metal. It provides a powerful, aggressive sound but can be physically demanding.

As you practice these techniques, focus on accuracy and control. Speed will come with time, so don’t rush it. A great resource for refining your technique is Riffhard, where you can find lessons from top-notch metal guitarists.

Building Finger Strength and Dexterity

Playing guitar, especially in metal genres, demands a lot from your fingers. Building strength and dexterity is crucial for executing fast riffs and solos.

Start with simple exercises, such as chromatic scales, to warm up your fingers. Gradually increase speed and complexity as you progress. Finger stretching exercises can also be beneficial, especially if you’re tackling wide intervals.

Don’t forget about your picking hand. Practice alternate picking and string skipping exercises to improve coordination. Consistency is key, so make these exercises a regular part of your practice routine.

Keeping Your Guitar in Tune

A well-tuned guitar not only sounds better but also makes playing more enjoyable. Tuning might seem tedious, but it's a necessary step in your routine.

Invest in a good quality tuner. Clip-on tuners are convenient and accurate. Make sure to tune your guitar every time you play, as temperature and humidity changes can affect tuning stability.

Familiarize yourself with different tunings. While standard tuning is common, many metal guitarists use drop tunings like Drop D or Drop C for a heavier sound. Each tuning offers a unique tonal palette, so don’t shy away from experimenting.

Final Thoughts

Picking up a guitar is just the beginning of your musical journey. With the right technique and mindset, you’ll be jamming out those heavy riffs in no time. Remember, practice and patience are your best allies. For those looking to dive deeper into metal guitar playing, Riffhard offers a treasure trove of resources and lessons from some of the best guitarists in the genre. Happy shredding!