Strumming 103 - Simple Tweaks

In this month’s post I close out the topic of strumming by discussing several issues which can arise with beginning players: heavy-handedness, using “too much” pick, stiff pick syndrome and “angled” strumming. Normally these problems require small “tweaks” to a players’ technique and with regular attention by both student and teacher they can be resolved. 

Quite frequently the issues of heavy-handedness and using too-much pick are intertwined. Heavy-handedness is when a student is trying to use too much force to strum across the strings and this can be the result of using “too much” pick. Whereas, the student is using a large portion of the pick to strum as they are trying to “insert” the pick between the strings when strumming rather than allowing it roll across the top of the strings. 

Strumming with too much pick and inserting it between strings

Moreover, new players may be showing signs of stiff pick syndrome (yes, I know) – meaning they are gripping the pick so tightly they are not allowing it to flex as it moves across the strings; lightening up the grip will go a long way in creating a relaxed and smooth strum. 

Finally, it is quite common for players starting out to strum on a wide angle rather than simply up and down. Generally this occurs 

Using too much elbow can cause a wide strumming angle

when a player is relying too much on their elbow for strumming. Using a “equal amount” of both elbow and wrist will help to

Controlled strum

achieve a more controlled strum and produce a more even tone.