Right hand
- Play with a satisfying, clear sound more consistently at two or more dynamic levels:
- plucking strings with free right-hand and arm movements
- using the plectrum as appropriate
- developing the use of palm-mute
- strumming patterns using downstrokes and upstrokes
Devise arpeggio exercises for learners, involving plucking strings with the thumb and fingers, using bigger jumps.
By using these exercises over open chords, the accuracy of the left hand can also be developed.
Show learners how to use different gauges of plectrum thickness when strumming simple chord progressions. Ask them to listen to the percussive sound that is produced by each plectrum and explain the reasons for using different gauges/sizes of plectrum.
Particular attention should be given to left-hand chord technique, hearing the effect of accidentally bending a string within a chord shape.
Show learners how to use the palm mute in some power-chord exercises. Ask them to imitate.
Learners should develop this technique to a point where they can quickly change back to a clean sound. A well-known example is ‘Foot Tapper’ by The Shadows.
Teach learners simple open-chord songs, using only three or four chords with simple down/up strumming patterns. Encourage learners to make up a variety of rhythmic patterns.
Help learners to make audio recordings of their playing as a tool for evaluating their tone, using an audio recording app.
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