How To Increase Your Guitar Playing Speed The Easy Way

Understanding Usable Guitar Speed

Many guitarists struggle with speed because they focus too much on their potential speed rather than their usable speed. Usable speed is the speed at which you can play accurately and consistently, while potential speed is the maximum speed you can achieve, often with mistakes. The key to becoming a faster guitarist lies in improving your usable speed through effective practice strategies.

The Importance of Two-Hand Synchronization

Achieving perfect synchronization between your fretting and picking hands is crucial for increasing your guitar speed. Here are some strategies to help you develop this skill:

Strategy #1: Double Picking

Double picking involves picking each note twice while practicing scales or runs. This technique challenges your synchronization by requiring your picking hand to move twice as fast as your fretting hand. Here’s how to incorporate double picking into your practice routine:

1. Warm-Up Routine: Use double picking as a warm-up for about 15 minutes before your regular practice.
2. Dedicated Practice: Schedule specific practice sessions focused on double picking with various technique exercises.

Strategy #2: Single String Licks

Practicing single string licks helps you perfect your two-hand synchronization. Use a metronome to track your progress and aim to play the lick perfectly for 15 repetitions at a certain tempo before increasing the speed.

Strategy #3: Practice Without an Amp

Practicing without an amp forces you to articulate each note clearly, revealing any inconsistencies in your playing. Focus on the notes that are out of sync to pinpoint and correct mistakes.

Strategy #4: Reverse Picking Attack

Practice single string fragments starting with an upstroke. Aim to make your playing sound identical whether you start with a downstroke or an upstroke. This helps maintain consistent articulation and synchronization.

Strategy #5: Focus on String Changes

Apply the single string strategy to multiple strings, ascending and descending. This trains you to maintain synchronization while switching strings.

Strategy #6: Position Shifts

Move your single string patterns to different positions on the fretboard. This trains your synchronization during fretting hand position changes. Stay relaxed and articulate the first note of each sequence with force to reset your synchronization.

Strategy #7: Measure Your Progress

Tracking your progress is essential for improvement. Use a metronome and keep a practice journal to monitor your speed and accuracy. This helps you identify weaknesses and stay motivated.

Interesting Stats About Guitar Playing Speed

• Average Guitar Speed: The average speed for intermediate guitarists is around 120-140 beats per minute (BPM) for sixteenth notes. Advanced players can reach speeds of 200 BPM or more (Source: Ultimate Guitar).
• Practice Time: According to a survey by Fender, guitarists who practice for at least 30 minutes a day see significant improvements in their playing speed and overall skill level (Source: Fender).
• Hand Synchronization: Studies show that effective hand synchronization can improve playing speed by up to 30% (Source: Journal of Music Research).

Conclusion

By focusing on usable speed and employing these synchronization strategies, you can significantly improve your guitar playing speed. Remember to track your progress and stay consistent with your practice. For more advanced techniques and tips, check out this free guitar technique guide.

By following these strategies and staying dedicated to your practice, you'll be well on your way to becoming a faster and more proficient guitarist. Happy playing!