Buzz
Picks are not only used for playing the banjo in a country style but also for instruments like the guitar, autoharp, and others. These picks are commonly made from materials like metal or plastic in various thicknesses. The choice of pick depends on the player's experience level and musical style. To use a pick, select one that suits you, place it on your finger, and adjust it according to your preference. This will allow the player to create beautiful melodies for everyone to enjoy.
Steps
Choose a Pick
Wear a pick that fits well. Picks typically come in small, medium, and large sizes. Choosing one that's too big or too small can make you uncomfortable and affect your playing. Visiting a music store to try different picks before purchasing can help you find the right one. If you can't visit a store, check the online size charts.
- Left-handed players should choose picks designed for left-handed use.
Explore various types of picks. Some picks are priced as low as $1, while others can cost as much as $35. You might be advised to choose the more expensive options, claiming they guarantee better sound quality, but this is not always the case. Occasionally, cheaper picks can produce a sound similar to the pricier ones.
- Handcrafted picks may come at a higher price.
Metal picks produce a sharper sound. Both metal and plastic materials can be used, but metal picks will provide a distinctive tone. Metal picks not only produce a more resonant and precise sound but are also more durable, especially if you're a heavy player or play frequently.
Plastic picks offer a softer sound. Since plastic is softer than metal, it creates a gentler sound. Plastic is also a good choice if you want to adjust the pick on your fingertip, as it’s more flexible.
- It’s also common to combine plastic and metal picks, as many players use three picks at once when playing.
Start with thinner picks. Thin picks are ideal for beginners, as they are lighter. They’re a great option for those who haven’t used picks before. The softness of thin picks makes them easier to handle. However, this doesn’t mean thin picks are only for beginners. They can help produce more delicate and subtle tones in your music.
Thicker picks are for faster playing styles. Thick picks are excellent for professionals who are confident in their ability to control the pick. They are also perfect for faster playing styles like ‘Quạt chả,’ a popular technique in country music. Thicker picks are also ideal if you want a heavier, more powerful sound.
How to wear a New Pick
Place the pick on the tip of your index finger. Typically, the pick needs to be adjusted before playing. To do this, first place the pick on the tip of your index finger. The bottom edge of the pick should be positioned midway from the tip of your finger to the first knuckle. The pointed end, which is used for strumming, should face down. Musicians often wear three picks at once. In this case, place the other two on the thumb and middle finger.
- If you're using three picks, it's recommended to use two metal picks and one plastic pick to create a varied sound sequence.
- The bottom edge of the pick should not be placed directly on the edge of the knuckle.
Secure the pick on your finger. First, use your thumb and the finger without a pick to hold both sides of the pick. Tighten the pick around your finger until it feels snug but not too tight.
- The pick should slightly widen at the tip of your finger.
Try bending the pick so the body of the pick fits snugly against your finger. This step isn’t necessary if you're happy with the size of the pick. However, if you want the pick to fit tighter, you can bend the body of the pick. You can do this by pressing the body of the pick onto a hard surface, such as a table, while wearing the pick.
- Stiffer picks are harder to bend.
Adjust the Sound
Adjust the pick angle correctly. This will help you strike the strings of the instrument at a straight angle. A straight angle will create a more refined sound. If the pick isn’t held too tightly, you’ll be able to slightly adjust the angle. The pick should rest on about half of the fingertip if it's adjusted to the right angle.
Reduce unwanted noise from plastic picks using heat. This method is particularly effective for plastic picks meant for the thumb. Use pliers to hold the pick and dip its flat edge into boiling water for 10 seconds. Then, remove it and gently shake the pick while it’s still hot. This process prevents the pick's surface from stretching and helps minimize unwanted noise.
Clean metal picks to avoid unwanted noise. Over time, unwanted noise may develop on metal picks, but you can reduce it by cleaning the pick. Use a soft cloth or leather piece to wipe the surface of the pick, removing any accumulated dust and dirt.
- It's also a good idea to keep the strings clean to prevent dirt from transferring onto the pick while playing.
Advice
- For plastic picks, try rubbing lip balm on the surface to reduce noise.
- Visit a music store to get advice on the right pick for your finger size and playing style.
Warning
- Make sure not to wear the pick guard too tightly as it can cause discomfort and restrict blood flow.
- Be cautious when adjusting the pick guard with heat. If you're unsure, it's best to get assistance when dipping the pick guard into boiling water.
