Author: Anton

Take your Sweep technique to the next level with these Sweep Picking Tips

sweep picking tips
I said sweep picking, not sleep picking

Today I’m going to hook you up with some sweep picking tips! If you’re looking to improve your sweep picking skills, you’ve come to the right place.

Sweep picking is a popular technique used by guitarists to play fast, arpeggio-based runs with a smooth and fluid sound. It requires precise finger movement and coordination, and can take some time to master. In this post, I’ll go over some proven strategies and tips to help you improve your sweep picking skills and take your playing to the next level. 

The importance of Practice

Practice is essential for improving your sweep picking skills. It allows you to develop muscle memory and precision, as well as helps you to become more comfortable and familiar with the technique.

By setting aside dedicated time for practice, you can focus on specific areas that need improvement and track your progress as you get better. Regular practice also helps to increase your speed and accuracy, and can ultimately lead to a more confident and skilled performance. In short, practice is the key to mastering sweep picking and achieving your musical goals.

sweep picking tips

Sweep Picking Tips

So, without further ado, here are my top tips for improving your sweep picking skills:

  1. Practice, practice, practice. There’s no substitute for putting in the time and effort to hone your skills. Set aside a specific time each day to work on your sweep picking, and stick to it.
  2. Start with the simple sweep patterns such as 2 string sweep patterns. Don’t try to tackle the most complex sweep picking patterns right off the bat. Start with something simple and gradually increase the difficulty as you improve.
  3. Pay attention to your hand positioning. Proper hand positioning is crucial for smooth and efficient sweep picking. Make sure your fingers are in the right position and that your hand is relaxed.
  4. Use a metronome. A metronome will help you keep time and develop a sense of rhythm. Set it to a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you get better.
  5. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Don’t be afraid to try new things and explore different techniques. You never know what might work for you until you give it a shot.

 

 
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Choosing a sweep course

sweep picking tips
a sweep picking machine

Taking a proven sweep picking guitar course by a known authority on the subject can also make all the difference in the world.  But remember that just because a guitarist has mastered their instrument doesn’t mean that they’re also an effective instructor.

I’ve gone through numerous courses on the subject myself and, while they were all helpful in some way, only one or two stood out as solid courses from the ground up. 

Out of my trial and error, one course stands out among all of the rest as the most complete, linear and effective: and that is Sweep Picking Mastery by one of my

personal favorite shredders, Dan Mumm. 

Here’s a review of Sweep Picking Mastery by fellow shred enthusiast, Az Samad.

 



 

So there you have it, my friend. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a sweep picking master in no time. Just remember: practice makes perfect, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see improvement right away. Keep at it, and you’ll get there eventually.

Shred on!

-Anton Anton

Alternate Picking vs. Legato

Alternate picking vs legato
A Chimera smoothly alternating between alternate picking and legato

Greetings, fellow guitar enthusiasts! Today, we’ll be discussing a topic that has plagued the minds of guitar players everywhere: Alternate Picking vs. Legato.

Alternate Picking

First of all, let’s define our terms. Alternate Picking, also known as “AP,” is a guitar technique that involves using an up and down motion to pick individual strings. This method is often used when playing fast, complex passages on the guitar.

It is a key component of any Shred guitarist’s arsenal. In shred guitar, alternate picking is used to play rapid, complex passages that may include rapid string changes, wide intervals, and rapid shifts between different positions on the guitar neck.

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Alternate picking is particularly useful in this context because it allows the player to maintain a consistent picking motion and keep the pick close to the strings, which can help to increase speed and accuracy. Alternate picking has been used to great effect by pretty much any Shred guitarist you can think of, from Mythical Tapping Maestro Eddie Van Halen to Legendary Shred Wizard Steve Vai.

 

Robert Baker showing you some Alternate Picked Shred Licks!

Legato

alternate picking vs. legato
this guy’s got the right idea

On the other hand, Legato (pronounced “le-gah-toe”) is a technique that involves using the fingers to smoothly transition between notes, rather than picking each one. 

In shred guitar, legato can be used to great effect for playing rapid, fluid lines that may also include wide intervals and rapid shifts between different positions on the guitar neck. Legato is achieved by using techniques such as hammer-ons, pull-offs, slides, and even finger tapping, which allow the player to seamlessly transition between notes without the need for additional picking motion.

 

Clint Tustin showing you some epic legato shred exercises and patterns!
 

 

What’s the difference? alternate picking vs. legato

So, what’s the difference between these two techniques? Well, it all comes down to speed and control. Alternate Picking is generally considered to be faster, as it allows the player to quickly alternate between strings. However, Legato can be more controlled, as it allows the player to smoothly transition between notes without any extra picking motion.

While alternate picking is often the go-to technique for fast playing in shred guitar, legato can be used to add a sense of fluidity and expressiveness to the playing.

But let’s not get too caught up in the technicalities. At the end of the day, it’s all about what works best for you as a player. Some guitarists swear by Alternate Picking, while others prefer Legato. Ultimately, it’s all about finding the technique that allows you to express yourself the best on the guitar. 

If you put the practice in, you’ll be able to use a combination of alternate picking and legato to achieve maximum speed while maintaining expressiveness and musicality.

So don’t stress too much about it. Just pick up your guitar (no pun achieved) and get to it!

Shred on!

-Anton Anton

 

The Modes: essential Shred Guitar Theory

shred guitar theory scales and modes
this is your brain on modes

My fellow Shredders, there comes a point in any Shred Guitarist’s life when it becomes necessary to start working on some Shred Guitar Theory.  There’s been a debate about the value of music theory in the world of Shred guitar that should have been settled long ago.  Any information relating to what you’re learning on the guitar is music theory in some way or another, so it’s time to move past that debate.

For Shred Guitar theory, two of the most fundamental areas are scales and modes. But what in the world are modes, you might ask?

shred guitar theory
standard example of a shred guitar theorist

The Modes

Well, modes are just scales with a different starting note. For instance, the C major scale is made up of the notes C, D, E, F, G, A, and B. If we start on the second note, D, and play the same sequence of notes, we get the D dorian mode. By starting on different notes and playing the same sequence of notes, we can create seven different modes: ionian, dorian, phrygian, lydian, mixolydian, aeolian, and locrian.

These modes have their own unique sounds and characteristics, and can add some depth and flavor to your solos. Take the phrygian mode, for example. It’s got a dark, exotic sound that can add some tension and suspense to your playing. On the other hand, the lydian mode has a bright, uplifting sound that can add a sense of expansion and openness to your solos.

How modes relate to scales

Modes, of course, are built from scales which, are just the group of notes that are found in a key or in a special context.  The most commonly used scale in western music is the major scale, which is made up of seven notes and has a bright, happy sound. This is usually where the modes are derived from.  But there are plenty of other scales to explore, such as the minor scale, the pentatonic scale, and the blues scale.

The minor scale is just a mode of the Major scale.  Remember when I mentioned the “aeolian mode”? Well that is just a fancy name for the minor scale.

In a very real sense, you can think of the modes as being other scales you can use or change to in order to change the feeling of your solo while staying in the same key. 

Using different scales and modes in your solos can help you create a wider range of sounds and emotions. For instance, the minor scale has a melancholy sound that can add some sadness and depth to your playing, while the pentatonic scale has a simple, catchy sound that can make your solos more memorable and hook-like.

 

The modes are a lot simpler than they sound

If the modes seem way too complicated for you, let me tell you that I felt exactly the same way for years. But what changed that for me was Dan Mumm’s course “The Infinite Shred Method”. This course utilizes Dan Mumm’s unique and powerful method of internalizing the modes across the fretboard. It starts out very simply and slowly builds out a method that simplifies the entire subject based on just a few repeating patters of 3 notes that can be found across the fretboard.

I highly recommend looking into it as building an intuitive comprehension of the modes is an essential part of mastering Shred Guitar. For me, getting the modes down is what opened up the entire fretboard for my solos. It felt like jumping up several skill levels in a very short period of time.

So, to wrap things up, while mastering all of the key shred techniques like alternate picking, legato, sweep picking, economy picking and so on, it’s only in combination with the modes and interesting scales that you can become a skilled and versatile shred guitarist like the Shred Masters. By experimenting with different modes and scales, you can add depth, emotion, and originality to your solos and take your playing to the next level.

Shred on!

-Anton Anton

 

Practicing for Neoclassical Shred Guitar

neoclassical shred guitar

Greetings fellow Shredder! No doubt you’re eager to improve your skills and take your playing to the next level. If you’re a fan of neoclassical shred guitar, you’re in luck – this exciting and challenging style of guitar playing can provide endless opportunities for growth and development. But to truly master the art of neoclassical shred guitar, you need to have a solid practice routine in place.

Listen to the Masters

It should go without saying that a key part of taking on any style of guitar playing is to listen to and study the masters of that style.  In the case of Neoclassical Shred Guitar, there are a number of top players that can give you the inspiration and motivation you need to tackle the style, but it’s best to start with the father of Neoclassical, the great, Yngwie Malmsteen.

 

Gear

First and foremost, make sure you have the right equipment. A high-quality electric guitar with a fast neck and low action is essential for neoclassical shred guitar, as is a good amplifier and a distortion pedal to create the characteristic crunchy, overdriven sound. Investing in quality gear will make a big difference in your ability to play fast and accurately.

Fundamentals

Next, focus on the fundamentals. Neoclassical shred guitar is all about speed, precision, and complex melodies, so it’s important to have a solid foundation in the basics of music theory and technique. Practice your scales, arpeggios, and alternate picking to build up your finger strength and dexterity, and work on developing a smooth and effortless legato playing style.

Advanced Techniques

Once you have the basics down, it’s time to start incorporating more advanced techniques into your practice routine. Take your alternate picking to the next level by increasing the speed using a metronome and bring in some more advanced techniques such as sweep picking and outside picking. Experiment with different time signatures, and try playing in keys that are outside of your comfort zone. Practice improvising and creating your own melodies, and don’t be afraid to push yourself to play faster and more complex pieces. 

 

Classical Licks

Dan Mumm Neoclassical Shred Guitar
Dan Mumm playing some Neoclassical Shred

If you aspire to play like Yngwie and you want to take your technique to the master level, the next step is to go straight to the source.  It’s time to start playing around with excerpts of the Classical music that inspired Neoclassical Shred that has been transcribed for electric guitar.

There are lot’s of options to choose from, but for the largest selection and most accurate transcriptions to the original compositions, I highly recommend going with Dan Mumm. If you’re not too familiar with Dan Mumm, you’ve probably at least seen or heard his rendition of J.S. Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in Dm.

 

 

Classical music transcribed for electric guitar is a lot more difficult to play than it seems and that’s because it isn’t designed with shred techniques in mind. It’s simply the notes that the composer decided to write based on what would sound best, not on what would be most efficient to play. So learning some of these pieces, or excerpts from these pieces, is one of the most effective methods of refining your neoclassical chops.


 

But it will also help you get a better understanding of how to make your solos sound more classical, which will give you an edge on other players.

Finally, be consistent in your practice. Set aside dedicated time each day to work on your Neoclassical Shred Guitar skills, and stick to a regular routine. This will help you make steady progress and avoid burnout. With dedication and hard work, you’ll soon be playing like a neoclassical shred guitar master.

Shred on!

-Anton Anton

 

The future of guitar is Progressive Shred

progressive shred extended range guitar
How many strings do you need?

Hello fellow guitar aficionado! If you’re reading this, chances are you’re interested in taking your shredding skills to the next level. Well, I’ve got some good news for you: the future of shred guitar is looking pretty darn progressive.

If you’re thinking “Progressive shred? Isn’t that like a newfangled hybrid of jazz fusion and funk metal?” Fear not, dear reader. Progressive shred simply refers to the incorporation of more complex and diverse techniques into your playing style. It’s all about pushing the boundaries of traditional shred and taking your guitar skills to new heights.

 

Progressive Shred Techniques

So, how do you master the art of progressive shred? First and foremost, it’s important to have a solid foundation in traditional shred techniques. This means mastering alternate picking, outside picking, legato, and sweep picking, as well as being able to play fast and clean. Once you’ve got those down, it’s time to branch out and explore new techniques.


 

Odd (and strange) Time Signatures

One way to do this is by incorporating unconventional time signatures into your playing. Gone are the days of 4/4 and 6/8 – progressive shredders are all about playing in odd meters like 7/8 and 9/8. This not only adds a level of technical difficulty to your playing, but it also helps to keep your audience on their toes.

Odd (and extended range) Guitars

Another key component of progressive shred is the use of extended range guitars. These beasts of the guitar world feature extra strings (up to 8 or 9!) and extended fretboards, allowing for the creation of even more intricate and varied melodies. If you’re feeling especially daring, you can even try your hand at playing in different tunings – just be prepared for a lot of re-stringing.

 

FX Pedals

Of course, no discussion of progressive shred would be complete without mentioning the use of effects pedals. These nifty little devices can completely transform the sound of your guitar, allowing you to create all sorts of bizarre and otherworldly noises. Experiment with different combinations of pedals to find the perfect sound for your progressive shred masterpiece.

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So there you have it – a brief overview of the exciting world of progressive shred. Remember, the key to mastering this style is a combination of technical proficiency and a willingness to experiment. So go forth and shred, my friends! May your guitar skills be ever progressive.

Shred on!

-AntonAnton

It’s about time you learn to shred

 

learn to shred
Your guitar is waiting for you… what are you waiting for!?

If you want to be the life of the party, the envy of your friends, and the absolute ruler of the guitar, then you need to learn to shred. Shredding isn’t just about playing fast – it’s about playing with passion, precision, and panache.

But if you’re a beginner, the prospect of shredding might seem daunting. Fear not, dear reader, for I, the great Anton, am here to guide you on your journey to becoming a guitar legend.

Alternate Picking

One of the key techniques in shredding is alternate picking. This means using a down-up motion with your pick to play each note, even when changing strings! It might feel awkward at first, but with enough practice, you’ll be able to play lightning-fast solos with ease.

Use a Metronome

Remember to use a metronome and start slow!  You can read about it in one of my favorite blogs, written by none other than one of my favorite guitarists and instructors, Dan Mumm!

Legato

Another important technique is legato playing, which involves using your fingers to smoothly transition between notes without using the pick. This will give your solos a fluid, graceful quality.

Play with Feeling

Of course, shredding isn’t just about playing fast – it’s also about playing with feeling. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on things and let your emotions shine through your playing. Use the standard techniques that can be found in most electric guitar styles such as bending.  And don’t forget that phrasing is everything, even for Shred Guitar!

So, if you want to learn how to shred, you need to practice alternate picking and legato playing, play with feeling, and never forget that the guitar is a musical instrument. Playing fast and flashy techniques isn’t enough to be a great Shred guitarist. It also has to sound good!

Shred on!

-Anton Anton

Two string sweep picking: a technique so simple, even a caveman could do it. 

caveman shredding with 3 hands
Hmm… this caveman might be overthinking it a bit…

Don’t let its simplicity fool you – when done correctly, two string sweep picking can add a unique and impressive flair to your guitar playing.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Anton, are you serious? Two string sweep picking? That’s for beginners!”

Well, let me tell you, my skeptical friend, two string sweep picking is not just for beginners. In fact, most advanced guitarists incorporate this technique into their playing in some way or other to add variety and complexity to their solos.

Believe it or not, the great shred masters have internalized it to such a degree that it can even be used unconsciously. You know, ever heard of economy picking?

But I know what you’re really thinking. “This is so boring Anton! I want to learn flashy, impressive guitar techniques, not something as basic as two string sweep picking.” 

Okay… let me tell you a little secret.

Well, first off, don’t be such a darned contrarian!  I’m trying to help you out here!  Secondly, remember that the key to impressing your audience with your guitar playing is not just in the flashy techniques you use, but in how you use them. And trust me, with a little practice, you can use two string sweep picking to add some serious flair to your playing and even to play Shred passages that you wouldn’t have been able to play otherwise.

At this point you’d better be thinking something along the lines of “I’m convinced. Teach me some two string sweep!”

Alrighty then, if you insist! 

how to play a 2 string sweep pattern

 

It’s actually quite simple. First, you’ll want to start with a basic two string dyad, or two notes of an arpeggio on adjacent strings.  Aa 3rd or 5th are a good place to get started. Next, instead of picking each note individually, you’ll pick downward or upward on both strings in succession using a sweeping motion.  It doesn’t have to be fast, just make sure you get the notes to change cleanly from one to the next with a smooth picking motion. 

Think strumming a chord a but more slowly to give time for each string to be heard on its own.  But it’s also important to only keep one finger down at a time so that you don’t get any bleed over.  Only one note should be heard at any time.

Here are a few simple examples.  First we have a simple 2 string dyad that uses downstrokes.  After that we have the same pattern in reverse with upstrokes.  Then we combine the two together with some legato, using a hammer/pull.  

2 string sweep dyad with down strokes
2 string sweep pattern with downstrokes
two string sweep dyad with upstrokes
2 string sweep pattern with upstrokes
2 string sweep pattern with legato hammer-pull and up and down strokes
combined 2 string sweep pattern with legato hammer/pull 

And that’s it! With a little practice, you’ll be able to smoothly and cleanly incorporate two string sweep picking into your playing. Just remember, the key to making this technique impressive is in the execution, so be sure to practice until you have it mastered.


 

So there you have it, folks. Two string sweep picking – a simple, yet effective technique for adding some extra flair to your guitar playing. Give it a try, and it will open up a lot of new avenues for your Shred solos and even give you some fresh ideas to get the creative juices flowing!

Shred on!

-Anton Anton

 

Have you tried outside picking yet?  No?  Now is the time…

 

Here's just one example of some creative shred guitar techniques or just try some outside picking instead
Example of some creative shred guitar techniques

As a renowned master of the six-string *ahem*, I’ve had my fair share of experience with the art of shredding. And let me tell you, there’s more to it than just furiously strumming away at your guitar like you’re trying to start a fire.  One of the most overlooked and important techniques to master if you want to truly master the art of shred is outside picking.

Outside Picking

This technique involves picking the lower of two strings with downstrokes and the higher string with upstrokes, resulting in a distinctive, fluid sound that will make your solos stand out.

But don’t just take my word for it – here’s a video of Paul Gilbert, the versatile virtuoso himself, playing with the technique and Troy Grady breaking it down for you:

 

Start by holding your pick between your thumb and index finger, with the tip pointing towards the floor. Then, pick the lower string with a downstroke and the higher string with an upstroke, using a fluid, circular motion. This will take some practice, but with time and patience you’ll be tearing up the fretboard like a pro.

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String Bending

Another essential technique for any shredder worth their salt is string bending. This involves using your fretting hand to bend the string up or down, creating a dramatic, expressive sound that will add depth and character to your solos.

 

To bend a string, simply place your fretting finger on the desired string and fret, and then use your other hand to push or pull the string in the desired direction. Be careful not to bend the string too far, as this can cause it to break – and trust me, there’s nothing less shred-tastic than a broken string in the middle of a solo.

I saw a great video years ago (which I can’t find now) from one of my personal favorite Shred Masters, Neoclassical Sweep Synthesist Dan Mumm, where he broke down a practice approach to string bending that was all about bending to specific notes and playing them together on adjacent strings to get the hang of bending perfectly in tune.  Basically, he had you bend up a half step on the 2nd string and then play that same note on the first string to compare them.  Then he did the same for a full step and one and a half steps.  I’ve personally been using that method ever since and I can tell you, it’s effective.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Don’t worry if you’re struggling to get the hang of these techniques – just remember that practice makes perfect! Keep at it, and before long you’ll be shredding like a true master of the six-string.

So there you have it – two essential techniques for any aspiring shredder. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, outside picking and string bending are sure to add some serious fire to your solos.

Shred on!

-Anton Anton

Economy Picking is the shredder’s secret weapon

 

Guitar economy picking is the shred guitarist's secret weapon

 

Ahoy there, fellow Shred enthusiast!

If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to improve your playing and take your shredding to the next level. Well, look no further because I’ve got just the trick for you: guitar economy picking.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Economy picking? That sounds boring and tedious. I want to learn how to shred, not save money at the grocery store.” But trust

guitar economy picking
let’s not get too carried away with this whole “economical picking” business

me, my friends, economy picking is anything but dull. In fact, it’s the key to smooth and effortless shredding.

For those of you who may not be familiar with the term, economy picking is a technique where you combine alternate picking with a little sweep picking when playing consecutive notes on adjacent strings. This allows you to pick the strings more efficiently and replaces the need for awkward string skipping when alternate picking across multiple strings.

But enough with the technical jargon, let’s get to the good stuff. Why is economy picking the key to smooth and effortless shredding, you ask? Well, for one, it allows you to play faster and more fluidly. By switching from alternate picking to sweep picking when a passage occurs on adjacent strings, you can play more quickly and easily which will result in faster and more seamless playing.

Another advantage of economy picking is that it eliminates the need for that pesky string skipping that can occur when alternate picking across multiple strings. This can be especially helpful for beginners who may struggle with the coordination required for string skipping. With economy picking, you can play complex melodies and arpeggios without having to worry about skipping strings with the pick.

But perhaps the biggest benefit of economy picking is that it allows you to focus on other aspects of your playing, such as your fretting hand or your timing. By eliminating the need to constantly alternate pick or skip strings, you can concentrate on other aspects of your playing, resulting in a more well-rounded and polished performance.

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So, there you have it, folks. If you want to take your shredding to the next level and play like a pro, give economy picking a try. It may not be the most exciting or flashy technique, but it’s definitely worth learning if you want to play smoothly and effortlessly. It may be a mostly hidden advantage, but it’s a pretty serious advantage.

Shred on!

-AntonAnton

 

Shred guitar phrasing
A chimera working on its phrasing chops

Phrasing for Shred Guitar: Making Shred more conversational since 1892

“Give each phrase some breathing room so that the listener has time to soak in the melodies. Tell a story with your phrases or imagine a conversation by playing around with some call and response phrases…”

Anton at Shred Guitar Masters

SUBHEADING

Give a Voice to your Shred Solos

Phrasing is the art of giving a voice to your solos and, while it’s not talked about enough, you can and absolutely should utilize phrasing for Shred Guitar.

But how does one go about achieving this elusive art? Well, my friend, let me give you some tips.

First and foremost, you’ve got to feel the music. Don’t just play the notes on the page, feel them in your soul. Let the music move you, and let that movement guide your fingers as they dance across the fretboard.

Next, pay attention to the rhythm. A solo without a solid rhythm is like a boat without a paddle, adrift in a sea of mediocrity. Make sure each note lands where it’s supposed to, and that your phrasing follows the beat of the music.

 

Another thing to keep in mind is that a well phrased solo is the downright opposite of “noodling.”  Try singing a melody over the track you’re practicing with. Notice anything different? Well, your guitar doesn’t have to stop to take breaths but you do!

Give each phrase some breathing room so that the listener has time to soak in the melodies. Tell a story with your phrases or imagine a conversation by playing around with some call and response phrases.

And, while we’re on the subject, don’t be afraid to let the guitar sing. Use vibrato to add expression to your playing, and bend those strings to make the notes cry out. This will add character and emotion to your solos, and make them truly stand out.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “This all sounds well and good, but how do I put it all together?”

Well, the key is practice. Sit down with your guitar, crank up your amp, get to feeling that music and then let those fingers fly. Experiment with different phrasing techniques, and see what feels right. 

You can also get creative with it by incorporating techniques such as legato or sweep picking into your phrasing. It might take some time, but trust me, it’ll be worth it in the end.

So there you have it, folks. The art of shred guitar phrasing. It’s not quite as easy as the greats make it sound, but with a little practice and a lot of soul, you too can give a voice to your solos and take your guitar playing to the next level. 

Shred on!

-Anton

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