In today's lesson, we are going to master the art of sweep picking arpeggios. Sweep picking is a technique that allows you to play arpeggios smoothly and rapidly by using a continuous sweeping motion with your pick. This technique is widely used in genres like Metal, Rock, and Jazz. Here we will cover the basics of sweep picking arpeggios and provide some examples and tips to get you started.
What is Sweep Picking?
Sweep picking involves using a single fluid motion to play multiple strings in succession, instead of picking each note individually. When combined with arpeggios, which are the individual notes of chords, this technique can create a cascade of notes that sound impressive and musically distinctive.
Basic Technique
- Gripping The Pick: Hold your rpick as you normally would, ensuring it's stable but relaxed. A firm grip can impede the smooth motion needed for sweeping.
- Hand Motion: The motion should be similar to stumming, but more controlled and precise. Move your hand in a single smooth motion across the strings.
- Palm Muting: Use your palm to mute strings after they're played to prevent unwanted string vibration. This is crucial for note clarity.
- Economy of Motion: Minimize hand movements by keeping your fingers close to the fretboard and using small motions.
Practice Exercises
Exercise #1: Three-String A Major Arpeggio
Here is a simple three-string arpeggio in A major. This exercise focuses on muting and clean transitions.
In this example, you use the notes of the A major chord. A on the 3rd string, C# on the 2nd string, and E on the 1st string. You progress through the notes of the chord individually, play the A note on the 17th fret, and then move back up to the A note on the 3rd string.
Practice Tips:
- Start slowly, ensuring that each string rings out clearly.
- Gradually increase speed as you become more comfortable.
Exercise #2: Five-String C Minor Arpeggio
This exercise uses a five-string sweep picking pattern in C minor.
This arpeggio uses the notes of the C minor chord. Starting on the 5th string, it ascends to the 15th fret on the 1st string, adds the B note at the 19th fret on the 1st string, and descends back down to the 5th string through the notes of the chord.
Practice Tips:
- Focus on the continuous motion of your picking hand.
- Use your picking hand to mute strings after they've been played.
Exercise #3: Extended Arpeggio In G Major
Once you get the other two exercises down, try this more extended exercise in G major.
In this last example, you go through the same procedure, except you start at the 10th fret on the 6th string. This is more of an extended arpeggio because you use all six strings. Ensure that as you ascend and descend through the arpeggio, you apply the practice tips from the previous two exercises.
Practice Tips:
- Ensure that each note is evenly spaced.
- Pay attention to the synchronization between both hands.
Tips For Sweep Picking Mastery
- Always start slow: Mastering sweep picking requires patience and persistence. Work with a metronome at a slow tempo, and gradually increase as you gain confidence.
- Work on clean technique: Prioritize clarity over speed, ensuring every note is distinct. This is vitally important to sweep picking.
- Practice consistently: Regular practice is key to this technique. You must incorporate sweep picking into your daily routine to see improvement.
- Listen and learn: Listen to guitarists who are known for this technique, like Yngwie Malmsteen and Jason Becker. The more you do, the more your ears will get familiar with the sound, and you'll gain insight and inspiration.
Sweep Picking Conclusion
As I stated before, this technique will take practice, and lots of it. It will need to be studied, and studied some more. It is a very advanced technique that allows you to produce an expressive and dynamic element in your guitar playing.
By following these exercises and tips, you will be well on your way to mastering this impressive technique. Remember, patience and persistence are your most valuable tools when it comes to improving your technique. Take it slow, increase speed gradually, stay committed, and before you know it, you'll be making sounds with your guitar that will make people go "Wow, how did you do that?" Best of luck!
Thanks for your time learning today.
Practice daily, and reach out if you have any questions.
Sincerely, Dwayne Jenkins.
