Economy picking is a highly efficient and effective guitar picking technique that can significantly enhance your guitar playing, especially when it comes to speed and fluidity. Our guitar modes and scales experts delve into the fundamentals of economy picking, how it compares to other picking techniques, and provide practical exercises to help you master this technique below.

 

What is Economy Picking?

Economy picking is a hybrid picking technique that combines aspects of alternate picking and sweep picking. The core principle is to minimize hand motion by using a single continuous motion when changing strings. This method allows for smoother and faster transitions between strings, making it ideal for playing scales, arpeggios, and fast runs.

Comparison with Other Picking Techniques

• Alternate Picking: This technique involves strictly alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes. While it provides a consistent rhythmic feel, it can be less efficient when changing strings, especially during ascending or descending scales.
• Sweep Picking: Sweep picking involves a single continuous motion across multiple strings, typically used for playing arpeggios. It is efficient for playing consecutive notes on adjacent strings but can be less versatile for scalar runs.
• Economy Picking: Economy picking aims to combine the strengths of both techniques. When ascending or descending through scales, you use alternate picking for notes on the same string and a sweeping motion when transitioning between strings. This reduces the number of picking motions and increases efficiency.

 

Why Use Economy Picking?

Economy picking offers several advantages for guitarists:

1. Increased Speed: By minimizing hand movement, you can achieve higher speeds with less effort.
2. Smoother Transitions: The sweeping motion allows for seamless transitions between strings, making your playing sound more fluid.
3. Efficiency: Less movement means less fatigue, allowing you to play longer and with more precision.
4. Versatility: Economy picking is suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from jazz to metal.

 

How to Practice Economy Picking

Basic Principles

1. Downstroke Sweep: When moving to a higher string (e.g., from the G string to the B string), use a downstroke that continues smoothly from one string to the next.
2. Upstroke Sweep: When moving to a lower string (e.g., from the B string to the G string), use an upstroke that continues smoothly.
3. Alternate Picking: Within the same string, alternate between downstrokes and upstrokes as usual.

Exercises to Develop Economy Picking

Exercise 1: Ascending and Descending Scales

Start with a simple scale, such as the C major scale. Focus on using economy picking for the string transitions.

C Major Scale Ascending and Descending:

e|—————————-0-1-3-|

B|———————-0-1-3——-|

G|—————-0-2—————|

D|———-0-2-3——————-|

A|—-0-2-3————————-|

E|0-1-3—————————–|

• When moving from the E string to the A string, use a downstroke sweep.
• When moving back from the A string to the E string, use an upstroke sweep.

Exercise 2: Three-Note-Per-String Patterns

Three-note-per-string patterns are excellent for practicing economy picking because they naturally fit the sweeping motion.

G Major Scale (Three Notes Per String):

e|——————————–2-3-5-|

B|————————–3-5-7——-|

G|——————–2-4-5————-|

D|————–2-4-5——————-|

A|——–2-3-5————————-|

E|2-3-5———————————|

• Use a downstroke for the first note on each string, followed by an upstroke for the second note, and a downstroke sweep for the third note as you transition to the next string.

Exercise 3: Arpeggios

Practicing arpeggios with economy picking will help you develop smooth string transitions.

C Major Arpeggio:

e|——————-0-|

B|—————–1—|

G|————-0-2—–|

D|———2-3———|

A|—3-2-3————-|

E|-0——————-|

• Use a sweeping motion to transition between strings. For instance, use a downstroke sweep when moving from the E string to the A string.

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Tips for Mastering Economy Picking

1. Start Slow: Begin at a slow tempo to ensure accuracy and control. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the motion.
2. Consistent Practice: Regular practice is crucial. Dedicate time each day to focus specifically on economy picking exercises.
3. Use a Metronome: Practicing with a metronome helps maintain a consistent tempo and improves your timing.
4. Relax Your Picking Hand: Tension can hinder your progress. Keep your picking hand relaxed to facilitate smooth, effortless motion.
5. Pay Attention to Tone: Ensure that each note rings out clearly. Muddy or unclear notes can indicate that your sweeping motion needs refinement.

 

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Challenge 1: Unwanted String Noise

When sweeping across strings, unwanted string noise can occur. To minimize this:

• Use Muting Techniques: Use your palm to mute strings that are not being played. This can help prevent open strings from ringing out unintentionally.
• Precision: Focus on precise picking and fret hand synchronization. Ensure that your fretting fingers press down firmly on the correct notes.

Challenge 2: Inconsistent Timing

Economy picking requires precise timing to ensure smooth transitions between strings.

• Metronome Practice: Practicing with a metronome can help you develop a consistent sense of timing.
• Slow Practice: Begin at a slow tempo and only increase speed once you can play the pattern accurately and consistently.

Challenge 3: Over-reliance on Sweeping

While economy picking is efficient, it’s important to maintain versatility in your picking technique.

• Alternate Picking Practice: Continue to practice alternate picking to ensure you can switch between techniques seamlessly.
• Variety in Practice: Incorporate a variety of picking exercises into your practice routine to develop well-rounded picking skills.

 

Related: Exploring Japanese Pentatonic Scales for Guitar

 

Economy Picking at the Next Level

Economy picking is a powerful technique that can enhance your guitar playing by increasing speed, efficiency, and fluidity. By combining aspects of alternate picking and sweep picking, economy picking allows for smoother transitions between strings, making it ideal for scales, arpeggios, and fast runs.

Mastering economy picking requires consistent practice, attention to detail, and a willingness to tackle challenges head-on. Start slow, focus on accuracy, and gradually increase your speed. Use exercises like ascending and descending scales, three-note-per-string patterns, and arpeggios to develop your technique. Incorporate tips such as using a metronome, keeping your picking hand relaxed, and paying attention to tone to refine your skills.

With dedication, patience, and the right guitar lessons – economy picking can become a valuable addition to your technical repertoire, opening up new possibilities for expression and creativity in your guitar playing. Sign up for our guitar lessons membership today to get started on your journey. You can also contact us to speak with Alex Donaldson if you have any additional questions or inquiries.