Getting Started with Guitar
Which Guitar Technique Is Right for Me: Finger Picking or Strumming?
Rose Park
3/1/24 • 4 min read
Many guitar players, particularly beginners, wonder whether they should start with fingerpicking or strumming. Both guitar techniques have their benefits, so it can be a tricky choice when you’re starting out. This article will help you figure out which approach is a better fit based on your musical style and skill level.
You will also learn about the benefits of learning both fingerpicking and strumming to expand your versatility over time. We’ll compare everything from proper hand positioning, genres best suited for each musical style, making sure we’ve got all bases covered for guitarists like you!
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Which guitar technique suits my musical style?
Deciding between fingerpicking and strumming guitar techniques can definitely feel like a tricky choice! Both techniques have their strengths and work better for certain genres and playing styles. When our guitar instructors help students determine which technique is right for them, they like to start by asking about their musical interests and goals.
For example, if you are really into folk, classical guitar, or acoustic guitar, fingerpicking is likely going to be a more natural fit. The delicate, intricate melodies in those styles really benefit from the independent control of each finger when fingerpicking. It lets you shape each note with specific nuance and expression. Strumming just can’t provide the same degree of complexity for those genres.
On the other hand, if you are passionate about rock, pop, or country music, strumming tends to work better for adding rhythmic drive and energy. In these upbeat styles, the strumming patterns really help set the rhythm and bring out the vocals.Fingerpicking can fit those genres too, but strumming just vibes better with the overall feel and direction of the music.
So think about what you want to play and what inspires you musically. Fingerpicking works well for gentle, melodic passages, while strumming provides rhythmic foundations. And keep in mind you can always learn both techniques – combining styles helps you become a more versatile guitar player and expand repertoire.
How do I choose based on my skill level?
If you’re just starting out or still mastering the basics, strumming may offer a smoother entry point. Its straightforward approach can help you develop a solid foundation in rhythm and timing. The repetitive motion of strumming chords can build your muscle memory quickly also. For example, songs like “Drivers License” by Olivia Rodrigo or “Wonderwall” by Oasis demonstrate the great use of strumming patterns for modern accompaniment.
Fingerpicking is more complex with each finger plucking independently, which can frustrate some beginning players. This technique adds a layer of complexity to your playing, and you can create intricate melodies and harmonies like ones from “Blackbird” by The Beatles. But that’s not to say fingerpicking can’t be learned as a beginner. With regular practice, your fingers will become more accurate. Start slowly with simple patterns and look for detailed instruction from your teacher to build a strong foundation.
As you progress and gain guitar skill, you’ll likely want to learn both strumming and fingerpicking to become a versatile guitarist. Our guitar teachers encourage intermediate and advanced students to diversify their techniques to expand repertoire. The most important thing is choosing the technique that keeps you motivated and enjoying practice. Don’t be afraid to try both techniques as a beginner and ask your guitar instructor who can give you tips and direction on selecting the right technique suited for you.
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What are the advantages of learning fingerpicking and strumming?
Learning both fingerpicking and strumming can absolutely take your guitar playing to the next level. With fingerpicking, you can build up independent control of each finger which lets you play complicated melodies and basslines at the same time. It’s also great for working on using dynamics and articulation to shape your tone.
Strumming helps improve your rhythmic skills. You’ll get better at changing chords right on the beat and internalizing different rhythmic patterns and grooves.
By learning and mastering both techniques, you’ll have so much versatility on the guitar. You can smoothly switch between playing delicate fingerpicked passages and full-sounding strummed rhythms. The interplay between fingerpicking patterns, basslines, percussive slaps, and strumming opens up tons of possibilities for interesting sounds and textures.
What are the challenges and how should I practice?
Fingerpicking Challenges:
- Getting each finger to pluck the strings independently can be tricky when you’re starting out. It requires developing dexterity in each digit to pick accurately. Take it slowly and focus on finger exercises in each practice session.
- Shaping tone and volume with fingerpicking can also be hard. Try to listen to how your attack and release of each string affects the sound. Try changing your fingernail shape and plucking closer to the bridge or neck to tailor your tone. Dynamics are important too – plucking harder or softer to control volume.
Strumming Challenges:
- Syncing up strumming patterns with chord changes is a common challenge. Start with basic down and up strokes. As you switch chords, focus on maintaining the pattern steadily. Metronomes can help internalize rhythm. Gradually build up to more complex strumming sequences.
- Maintaining a steady rhythm can be tricky in the beginning. If your strumming gets rushed, it sounds choppy. Try to listen to the drums or bass lines in music you like and play within the pulse and cadence. Use a metronome and start slow at first, gradually increase the tempo once you play accurately.
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What equipment do I need for each technique?
Guitar Selection
When it comes to equipment, fingerpicking and strumming can work with similar starter gear. Any beginner acoustic guitar itself can handle both techniques. Steel-string models with their brighter tone help notes crisp when you fingerpick. Nylon-string acoustics have a warmer, rounder sound and easy playability that’s great for fingerstyle playing.
For electric guitars try a Stratocaster or Telecaster for articulate picking or Les Paul. Basic amps like Fenders or Voxes can amplify the sound of electric guitars, providing volume and tone controls to adjust the sound.
Guitar Picks
Picks range from thin and flexible options to heavy picks. Fingerstyle players use a combination of thumb, fingernails, and fingerpicks for articulation. Strummers do well with standard or hybrid-style picks in the 0.5 -1.0mm range. For those who use both techniques, they blend both techniques using a pick-and-fingers combination. Try a thin pick just for strumming then finger pick melodies.
Strings
The right guitar strings can help your playing sound and feel better. For fingerpicking, “fingerstyle” strings are ideal. They have less tension which makes them easier on your fingers during long practice. The lighter gauge wound strings also pluck more clearly, and the plain strings match the sound of the wound strings, so everything sounds more defined and clear.
Strummers may like “light” strings more since they bend easier. But ultimately go with what feels best on your actual fingers – you can’t go wrong starting with a quality set of phosphor-bronze or nylon strings.
Are there specific hand positions or posture tips for fingerpicking and strumming?
For strumming hand position, again keep the wrist straight. Many players anchor their pinky on the pickguard or bridge for control. Hold the pick between the thumb and index fingertip. Keep a firm but relaxed grip. Use a shoulder strap so you aren’t gripping tightly to support the guitar’s weight. Pluck strings with a loose elbow and free wrist and finger motion.
For general posture, sit up straight on the front half of your chair. Don’t hunch over the guitar. Keep your shoulders relaxed and head up. Set the guitar on your non-dominant leg angled up towards your fretting shoulder. This way, you can easily reach those lower frets without putting too much strain on your wrist. Stay mindful of tension while playing. Take breaks to stretch and shake out hands.
Ready to Level Up Your Guitar Skills?
You’re passionate about playing guitar, but unsure about how to advance your fingerpicking and strumming techniques further? Start your guitar lessons at Lessons With You! Our dedicated team of professional instructors, with degrees in guitar from top music schools, will guide you every step of the way. Your first lesson is on us, and no contracts are necessary.
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Rose Park
Rose Park is a graduate of the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University where she studied Piano Performance and Arts Administration, receiving both Bachelor's and Master's degrees before co-founding Lesson With You. As a pianist, Rose was a prizewinner in many international piano competitions and performed at various summer programs and festivals across the United States, Italy, and Japan.