Downpicking and tremolo picking alternation tips

[Ben Thorpe]

Where to begin with my problems with this technique… as a rhythm guitarist I have found myself struggling with this aspect of my playing for a while, especially alternating between the two. I have several questions about this area which I would greatly appreciate some assistance on.
1) How do I stop my pick from slipping from my hand when downpicking or tremolo picking?
2) How do I prevent my arm and hand from getting tired when downpicking? Does your hand naturally get stronger overtime, or do I need to relax it more? Where is the best pivot point for these techniques
3) What sort of angle does my pick need to be when tremolo picking? I find that when it’s flat against the strings I end up missing a beat and doing 2 consecutive downpicks.
These are my biggest struggles at the moment, and I may have more in the future. Any tips will be greatly appreciated!

 

[idssdi]

1) How tight are you gripping your pick. It may just be that you hold your pick too loosely
2) it is partly stamina but also some relaxation. Try to relax and you will develop stamina when you play a lot
3) I think I hold it at about 45 degrees but I can’t guarantee that that’s actually how I do it. It’s definitely not flat

 

[Dan Shipway]

Try playing a song such as BENZIN by Rammstein for good downpicking pracitice, start off slow and get comfortable with it. The main issue with downpicking is that it isn’t natural and ergonomical due to the fact that you play a down stroke but have to return to the starting position as apposed to playing another note on the way back to the start position (hope that makes sense). Just stick at it, even i have difficulty but it will improve.
As for alternate picking (and sweeps for me personally), I do what syn tends to do and curl my fingers up. I find it gives more control over picking. When I alternate picking, my pick is almost perpendicular but it is what works for me so it’s all about finding that sweet spot and not overthinking it to the point where nothing feels right.

 

[Guest]

For down picking I can help you a lot. So I learned to downpick from a bunch of Metallica songs so I recommend learning a lot of Metallica songs master of puppets creeping death etc. Also grip the pick tight this is the only way to can really get in there and play fast. Make sure only a little bit of the pick is sticking out, you don’t want a lot so really leave just a bit of the pick showing. This takes a lot of time to develop but it’s worth it. So 1. Tighten up on your grip 2. Leave a little bit of the pick showing learn a lot of Metallica because James is a god at downpicking. And downpicking is the only thing I can do fast and clean haha. Also make sure to relax your arm.and as for trem picking like ids said a 45 degree angle. Tremolo picking is easy once you get it. Hopes this helps