One of the most common questions that arise when discussing fingerstyle is if you should use nails or flesh when playing.
Nails require you to either grow out your fingernail or apply acrylics whereas flesh doesn’t require any additional maintenance except for cutting the nails.
You may be asking, what are the main differences and advantages/disadvantages between the two?
Nails
Right off the bat, nails are going to provide a brighter tone due to the material that is striking through the string. With proper shaping and filing technique the nails could provide a warmer tone. This requires several adjustments with the filing of the nail in order for the nail to come out just right for your specific right hand technique. There are many different angles & approaches but all have the same principle.
This picture demonstrates a good nail length and shaping to start with:
Flesh
This route is the most common to start with, as it doesn’t require any additional work in order to play fingerpicking guitar. If we forget the nails and disregard any artificial product we use our flesh to fingerpick. The flesh provides a much warmer tone and less volume as well as dynamic range since it’s not likely to project as well as nails.
Here is a video on nail shaping I recommend:
Deciding on your nails or flesh is based on your personal taste and the sound that you’re trying to achieve. If you were a fingerstyle player or classical guitar player it is recommended that you at least try the nails and see if they’re a good fit for you. If you have brittle nails, there are hardening products and vitamins that can help to be able to strengthen them.
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Exploring Alternate Tunings for Fingerstyle Guitar: Unlock New Sounds
Alternate tunings can dramatically change the sound of your guitar and enhance your fingerstyle playing. Here’s an exploration of various tunings and tips on how to adapt familiar songs to these tunings.
1. DADGAD Tuning
This tuning is popular for folk and Celtic music, offering a rich, resonant sound.
Tip: Experiment with open strings to create unique voicings.
2. Drop D Tuning
By lowering the sixth string to D, you can play powerful bass lines while maintaining familiar chord shapes.
Tip: Try playing songs like “Whole Lotta Love” in this tuning.
3. Open G Tuning
This tuning allows for easy slide playing and a distinct sound.
Tip: Use this tuning for blues and slide guitar.
4. C6 Tuning
Often used in Hawaiian music, C6 tuning opens up new chord possibilities.
Tip: Experiment with this tuning for a different flavor in your playing.
Conclusion
Exploring alternate tunings can enhance your fingerstyle playing and inspire new musical ideas. Don’t hesitate to experiment and adapt songs to make them your own!
The Best Fingerstyle Guitar Songs for Intermediate Players: Challenge Yourself!
As an intermediate player, challenging yourself with more complex fingerstyle pieces is essential for growth. Here’s a curated list of songs that will test your skills and expand your repertoire.
1. “Classical Gas” by Mason Williams
This instrumental piece features intricate fingerpicking and dynamic changes.
Link to Tutorial: [Link]
2. “Cannon in D” by Pachelbel (arranged by various artists)
A classical piece with beautiful harmonies, perfect for fingerstyle.
Link to Tutorial: [Link]
3. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
This song’s fingerpicking pattern is both challenging and rewarding.
Link to Tutorial: [Link]
4. “Blackbird” by The Beatles
A classic that offers a great mix of melody and harmony.
Link to Tutorial: [Link]
5. “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton
A beautiful ballad with emotional depth and challenging fingerstyle elements.
Link to Tutorial: [Link]
Conclusion
These intermediate-level fingerstyle songs will challenge your skills and help you grow as a musician. Take your time with each piece, and enjoy the learning process!
Fingerstyle Guitar Exercises for Building Speed and Precision
Improving speed and precision in fingerstyle guitar requires focused practice. Here are a series of exercises designed to enhance your finger dexterity and overall technique.
Exercise 1: Chromatic Scales
Play chromatic scales using all four fingers. Start slowly and gradually increase the speed.
Exercise 2: Finger Independence Drills
Practice moving each finger independently while keeping the others still. This builds coordination and strength.
Exercise 3: Alternate Picking
Focus on alternate picking with your fingers. Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo.
Exercise 4: Arpeggiated Chords
Practice arpeggiating chords, starting slowly and increasing the tempo. This helps improve precision.
Exercise 5: Fingerstyle Patterns
Create and practice various fingerstyle patterns, gradually increasing the complexity.
Conclusion
These exercises will help you build speed and precision in your fingerstyle playing. Consistent practice is key to seeing improvement.
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