Flatpicking is a guitar playing technique that involves using a plectrum, or “pick,” to strike the strings of the guitar. It’s a popular style of guitar playing that’s used in many different genres, including bluegrass, folk, country, and rock. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Flatpicking, including what it is, some basic techniques, and a few examples of Flatpicking in action.
What is Flatpicking?
Flatpicking is a guitar-playing technique that involves using a pick to strike the strings of the guitar. It’s a versatile technique that’s used in many different genres of music, including bluegrass, folk, country, and rock. Flatpicking is characterized by its quick, precise picking patterns, which often involve rapid-fire string changes and complex rhythms.
Basic Flatpicking Techniques
There are several basic techniques that are used in Flatpicking. These include:
- Downstrokes: In a downstroke, the pick is moved down across the strings, striking each string in turn. Downstrokes are often used for the first note of a new phrase or when the melody moves to a new string.
- Upstrokes: In an upstroke, the pick is moved upward across the strings, striking each string in turn. Upstrokes are often used for the last note of a phrase or when the melody moves back to a previously played string.
- Alternate picking: In alternate picking, the pick is used to strike each string in turn, alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes. This technique is used to create a fast, fluid-picking motion that allows the player to move quickly between notes.
- Cross-picking: In cross-picking, the pick is used to strike multiple strings at once, creating a rich, full sound. This technique is often used in bluegrass and country music.
Examples of Flatpicking
Flatpicking can be heard in many different genres of music. Here are a few examples of Flatpicking in action:
“Foggy Mountain Breakdown” by Earl Scruggs: This bluegrass classic features a fast, intricate flat-picking pattern that showcases the player’s technical skills and precision.
“Angie” by The Rolling Stones: This classic rock ballad features a beautiful flat-picked guitar melody that serves as the centerpiece of the song.
“Black Mountain Rag” by Doc Watson: This traditional tune is a showcase for Doc Watson’s virtuosic flat-picking skills. The song features rapid-fire picking patterns and intricate melodic runs.
“Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show: This modern classic features a catchy, upbeat flat-picked guitar riff that drives the song forward.
Flatpicking is a versatile guitar-playing technique that’s used in many different genres of music. Whether you’re a bluegrass musician or a rock guitarist, Flatpicking is an essential skill that can help you to create rich, complex melodies and rhythms. By mastering the basic techniques of Flatpicking and studying the work of great flat pickers like Earl Scruggs and Doc Watson, you can take your guitar playing to the next level and create music that truly stands out.