Hand and arm positions

nixpix

Great book and great explanations. I have basically two questions, though. I'm confused on the "45 degree" angle of the pick strike. I don't know what axis to base it on. Would it be that my hand would be a little lower (closer to the first string) and the tip of the pick would be closer to higher (closer to the 6th string) while in motion? Kind of like my hand was "leading" the pick?

Also, it seems like the forearm of the right hand needs to change position depending on what string I'm hitting. Is this correct? Thanks.

Nick

nixpix

Maybe I didn't explain myself clearly. I guess it's more of a question of pick attack angle. I understand the 45 degree attack to be referring not to the rotation of the pick in the hand, but instead to the trajectory of the pick as it is traveling to the string. IE if I come in at a starting point 1-2 inches perpendicular to the soundhole and 1-2 inches toward the higher strings, I have a 45 degree attack. Is this correct?

MichaelHorowitz

nixpix wrote:

IE if I come in at a starting point 1-2 inches perpendicular to the soundhole and 1-2 inches toward the higher strings, I have a 45 degree attack. Is this correct?

Yes...that sounds right. If you look on p.18 you can see the proper angle in the photos.

Most people just do this naturally...it's a lot easier to push the through the string.

Good luck!

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