Beginner Level:
Finger Numbering
Above is a diagram showing the finger numbering chart used when reading tablature. Finger numbering is generally placed directly below a tab. In some cases, right hand fingerpicking may be indicated with the number in brackets. ie, [3]

 

Finger Exercises, Part 1
This is an exercise I have used quite often - It's a great way to break in the fingers. Also, when you get some speed going with it, it does sound quite impressive. As with most finger exercises, it's relatively useless in a song, but the dexterity and stamina you build up with it will pay off tenfold in the future.

This exercise simply makes you use all four fingers. Remember - play with a metronome or drum machine, alternate pick every note (*up* *down* *up* *down* etc.), and do it without distortion. If you mess up, start over. I've found that doing that helps make sure that you don't mess up again!

Exercises, Part 2
The following is an arpeggio exercise I do to practice string skipping (which is vitally important in jazz playing). It's a simple major arpeggio, but I've stretched it out to skip a string. This one is particularly helpful if you want to work on your alternate picking technique. As always, shut off the distortion, turn on the metronome, and play cleanly. No need to be a speed king at first. Accuracy is the most important. If you play accurate. Speed and fluency will naturally be the next to follow!

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

 

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MarKus Lee Music © 2008

 

 

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