Scalpel Picking and Sarod Picking Versus Typical Picking

Q: Hi. I want to thank you for your resources. I own 1st Steps for a Beginning Guitarist and have checked out Music Theory Workbook for Guitar Volume One from my library. I’ve been working my way through both. I was curious if you had any experience with scalpel picking or sarod picking. The motion of scalpel picking is to position the pick at 30 degrees and use the thumb and index finger to glide the pick over the string. I’m very interested in this technique (theoretically). Could I put myself at risk for injury from this technique?
Thank you so much and I look forward to your next book,

A: Nice to hear from you.
One of the main problems with playing by moving your thumb and index finger only is you stand the chance of burning out the thumb muscle. I had a friend who played like this for years and was lighting fast with his picking. Once he got real busy playing with a lot of people his muscle burned out completely and was unable to hold anything between his thumb and index finger for 10 years. It took that many years for the muscle to recuperate. The forearm as the instigator of movement is the only way I’ve found that prevents damage over the long term. You can hold the pick at an angle if you want. Personally I find that sound to be a bit harsh but some people like it. In any case in my opinion if you are not playing from the forearm you asking for problems. If you want to see close ups of all the recommendation I make for playing the guitar check out www.truefire.com’s Guitar Physiology.

Best Regards,

Bruce

It is also recommended that you read Bruce Arnold’s Blog at his artist site. It contains more discussion of the musical topics found in these FAQs as well as other subjects of interest. You will also find the “Music Education Genealogy Chart” located here which shows you the historic significance of the music education products found on the Muse Eek Publishing Company Website.

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