August 2010

Alternate picking is an important technique to improve speed and accuracy in playing.  And I’m really inconsistent about it.  Problem is, the usual “finger gym” exercises are just so boring to play!

So my suggestion is to find a great song that’s fun to play, figure it out (write it down if you can), and use it as your exercise.  Start slow, then try to get it up to speed.

Lately, I’m playing Hysteria by Muse.  Excellent song!  The intro bass part is great to play on guitar (see my transcription at right), and of course the guitar solo is a great finger gym exercise too.  Alternate picking throughout.

Justin Sandercoe also has a great online lesson for Hysteria. Check it out.