Mastering Economy Picking on Guitar: A Step-by-Step Guide
In the world of guitar techniques, economy picking stands out as a game-changer for efficiency and speed.
It bridges the gap between alternate picking and sweep picking, creating a fluid motion across strings.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player looking to refine your technique, this guide based on Karl Golden's insights will help you master economy picking.
What is Economy Picking?
Economy picking is a hybrid picking method that combines alternate and sweep picking. It focuses on minimizing motion, allowing for smoother transitions between strings. Here’s the rule of thumb:
- Ascending Strings: End with a downstroke.
- Descending Strings: End with an upstroke.
For instance, when playing a three-notes-per-string major scale, the picking pattern changes as you cross strings, enabling greater speed and efficiency.
Why Learn Economy Picking?
- Increased Speed: By reducing unnecessary hand movement, economy picking allows faster transitions across strings.
- Improved Alternate Picking: Practicing economy picking often strengthens your alternate picking technique.
- Versatility: It pairs well with legato techniques, giving your fingers a break and achieving a smooth sound.
Getting Started: Tips and Exercises
1. Start Simple with Scales
Begin with a three-notes-per-string scale, like the A minor scale:
- Play through the scale slowly, focusing on the picking pattern:
- Ascending: Down-up-down, then continue with a sweep downstroke to the next string.
- Descending: Up-down-up, then sweep upstroke to the previous string.
2. Use a Metronome
Set a metronome at a low tempo (e.g., 80 BPM) and practice the scale in triplets:
- Count as "1 and a, 2 and a, 3 and a..."
- Gradually increase the tempo by 5 BPM as you gain confidence.
3. Plectrum Positioning
- Maintain a downward slant on your pick.
- Avoid rotating your hand for ascents or descents; keep the angle consistent for efficiency.
Advanced Techniques
- Chunking: Instead of tackling the entire scale, break it into smaller sections (e.g., three or two strings). This helps your brain process the technique more easily.
- Octave Exercises: Repeat a scale pattern over three octaves. This repetition solidifies the technique and improves muscle memory.
- Mini-Licks: Focus on small, isolated patterns that use economy picking. These are great for warming up and refining accuracy.
Common Challenges and Solutions
- Initial Awkwardness: Economy picking can feel unnatural at first. Stick to slow, deliberate practice for at least two weeks before increasing speed.
- Consistency: Pay close attention to your picking motion. Sloppy execution can hinder progress.
- Muscle Memory: Regular practice is essential. Like going to the gym, consistency leads to long-term improvement.
Taking It Further
Once comfortable with economy picking, explore its applications:
- Combine it with legato techniques for seamless, fluid licks.
- Experiment with seven major scale shapes, which naturally integrate economy picking due to their odd note groupings.
GET RESULTS WITH A metronome
As with everything you practice make sure you use a metronome and start super slow to make sure you are playing the lick correctly with the right fingers, technique and attack (it's fine to not use a metronome at first while first learning it).
I recommend starting at 60pm and use 8ths notes until you can play the lick without mistakes three or four times in a row then speed up the metronome by 5bpm. If you are really struggling playing the whole lick break it down to a bar or two. CLICK HERE to get a metronome.
The best way to really get any licks under your fingers is to practice them over a backing track and this may help inspire your own lick ideas as well.
ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR Lead guitar
