Tendonitis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Repetitive Stress Injury are specters haunting the life of every musician; they are career stoppers. It is unfortunate that the teaching of contemporary guitar rarely includes the basics of proper stance, posture or positioning of the arms, wrists and hands, even though this is the most basic foundation of technique! Most students tend to fixate on the left hand, due to the complex nature of its task, but the right hand has an equally important, if seemingly simple function. Incorrect technique in this area and its painful consequences can be avoided by applying the information found in this book. The exercises and positions described have been developed by the author in conjunction with physiotherapists and major players in both the classical and jazz world. This book is invaluable for the beginning student who wishes to get on the right path immediately, the musician who is experiencing fatigue or pain in playing, and the musician who may already have some damage. The exercises are geared to help the muscles respond smoothly to the demands placed upon them, and develop fast, precise playing. 24 exercises can be downloaded from the internet to facilitate correct practice and aid internalization. EXCERPT 1
Right hand technique on guitar is one of the most misunderstood and overlooked aspects of guitar playing. With the myriad of right hand styles used by guitarists it is difficult to know which technique is best. Whether you are an occasional strummer of the guitar or are seeking to become a "world class" guitarist, utilizing the muscles of your right arm in the proper way will insure you years of pain-free development.
Volume 1 of this series will cover the basics for good right hand technique. It is a big commitment to stop one's current right hand technique and start on a new course, but I have found that the students I teach have substantially better speed and accuracy in 6 to 8 months utilizing the suggestions found in this book. These students usually come to me experiencing pain from improper technique. Even partial implementation of the methods put forth in this book will help you to play more fluidly.
The guitar is a very versatile instrument and is capable of many different sounds and styles, and the right hand is your tool for creating many of them. Volume one of the right hand technique series will only cover some of the more basic techniques. Styles such as harmonics, muting ,alternative picking applications etc. will be covered in future volumes.
Frequently when people discuss right hand technique they overlook the most basic things. Guitar placement in relation to your body and pick placement within your hand have to be addressed before proper right-hand movement can be obtained. These two aspects along with the correct movement of your forearm and elbow comprise a right hand technique that can be sustained for a lifetime.
It is important to remember that every person is built differently. What works for one person may cause severe pain to another. Don't figure that because your friend or superstar hero plays with the guitar at knee level means that it will work for you. If you are experiencing pain or if you have tried a technique and don't feel that you are progressing, start questioning the wisdom of continuing with a position that's probably not right for you. Admittedly, the method presented here is tedious and time consuming but keep in mind that it will not cause you a fraction of the anguish you will experience if you have to start a new way of picking half way through your career, or never reach your goal because of bad form.
GUITAR PLACEMENT
The placement of the guitar in relation to your body is a tricky subject because of the many body types that exist. (This applies to both people and guitars!)....
