Is It More Difficult for Beginners to Play with a Pick or Fingerpicking?

Many beginners in guitar learning often start by using a pick before transitioning to fingerpicking. This article delves into the reasoning behind the perceived difficulty of each playing method and provides insights into both techniques.

Technical Differences: Picks vs. Fingerpicking

Playing with a pick involves a piece of plastic that contacts the strings, which can be challenging due to its small size and minimal thumb grip. Previous decades of advanced fingerstyle players were primarily classical guitarists, like Andres Segovia and John Williams, who performed with their hands literally floating from the elbow. This method requires significant intertia and micro precision.

For most people, supporting the hand for fingerpicking is easier than holding a pick, especially on guitars with narrower string spacing such as steel string acoustics, electrics, and narrow-spaced nylon string guitars. The stability provided by a supported picking hand above the wrist allows for quicker advancement in techniques. Therefore, many guitarists argue that advanced beginners can achieve more with fingerpicking in just one year compared to using a pick.

Classical and Electrics: Hyperspeed Techniques

Despite the challenges, there are exceptional players who master both techniques. Classical guitarist Nobuyoshi Yamashita and electric guitarist Matteo Mancuso are examples of masters who can play with both a pick and fingerpicking. However, for beginners and intermediates, it is generally advisable to focus on one technique at a time.

Fingerpicking as a Skill

Fingerpicking is often considered more difficult due to the increased number of moving parts - the fingers. Many experienced guitarists, including myself, primarily play with a pick but can also fingerpick to a lesser extent without becoming highly proficient. This is because fingerpicking is not their primary interest. If you are dedicated to becoming a proficient fingerpicker, consider taking professional lessons early on from a knowledgeable teacher. Watch videos of skilled fingerpickers like James Taylor to find a style that resonates with you and then seek a suitable teacher to guide you.

Conclusion

Whether a pick or fingerpicking is easier for beginners largely depends on personal technique and interest. While a pick is generally considered easier, fingerpicking offers a unique set of challenges and rewards. Understanding the differences can help beginning guitarists choose the method that best suits their goals and interests.

For those seeking to improve their skills, whether it be through picking or fingerpicking, there is no better resource than the vast library of free and paid online guitar lessons available today. Whether you prefer classical or electric guitar, the world of music is at your fingertips.