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Speed and Tension
By Ernesto | March 29, 2008
It’s been awhile. Because of a big move, some traveling, and intermittent internet access, I haven’t had much time to update this blog. But I’ve had quite a few ideas floating around, so things should get up to speed rather quickly.
As most of you know, one of the keys to having good technique is to avoid tension. The challenge is to not let your body tense up whenever you’re going to play something that you consider to be difficult.
I found a simple way to avoid this, and that is by playing with dynamics. Simply take any piece, etude, riff, that you’re working on. Practice with a metronome and slowly get it up to speed. However, as you play, alternate between loud and soft.
If you’re like me, once you start getting closer to your speed limit, it will get harder and harder to play softly. This forces you to release tension, because it’s the only way you’ll be able to achieve those kinds of dynamics.
I’m sure this is old news for may, but it was quite the mini-revelation for me. Just thought I’d share.
Topics: Guitar, Practicing, Technique |
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