Fundamental Techniques for Electric Guitar

How to Hold the Guitar

Hi, guys! I just wanted to share with you some of the fundamental techniques for electric guitar.

Basic Positioning

1. Seating the Guitar:

   • Most electric guitar players will sit the guitar across their right leg, with the neck going across the body.
   • Important: Keep the neck level, maybe even slightly upright. Avoid allowing it to descend towards the floor as this can lead to a bad hand position on your left hand.

2. Posture and Relaxation:

   • While it's great to be relaxed when playing, ensure that your posture remains good.
   • Avoid resting the forearm of your fretting hand on your leg, as this can lead to pain. Instead:
     • Ensure your elbow is not digging into your chest, which restricts movement.
     • Sit up straight with the guitar across the body, not pointing towards the floor or ceiling too much, just nice and level.

Right Hand Position

For the right hand, you'll most likely be using a pick. Here's how to hold it:

Holding the Pick

• Grip: Hold the pick between your thumb and first finger.
  • Make sure your pick has a pointy end.
  • Place your thumb across the pick, so the point is sticking out underneath your thumb joint.
  • Tuck your first finger behind your thumb.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Fingernail Position: Ensure your first finger isn't pointing down; it should stay tucked away. If your fingernail hits the strings, it won't sound great.

Pick Tension

• Grip Strength: Don't hold the pick too tightly; just firm enough so you don't drop it.
  • Adjust the amount of pick you show to the strings based on your playing style.
    • For intricate playing, show a minimal amount of pick.
    • For strumming, you can show a bit more.

Finger Placement

• Other Fingers: It's entirely up to you, but my personal preference is to have them relaxed and slightly splayed out. This allows for:

  • Easy access to volume and tone controls.
  • The ability to finger pick other strings while picking.

• If you prefer, you can bunch your fingers into a light fist.

  • Relaxation is Key: Remember, nothing about playing guitar should be tense. The goal is to stay relaxed.

Experimentation

Why don't you experiment and see which finger position you prefer? Happy playing!