Split Strumming
Do you wish you could have more exciting strumming without having to get better at up strokes?...
All downstroke strumming doesn't have to be boring...
You can make some great strumming patterns with downstrokes only...
I have a strumming technique that I call split strumming. Split strumming is a very easy technique to master, even if you use downstrokes only. It involves dividing your guitar neck in half and playing only on your thicker strings, then switching to your thinner strings.
You can use any combination of playing thicker or thinner strings. What this technique does for you is enable you to play strumming patterns without having to worry about executing an accurate upstroke. That way, if you don't have a strong upstroke, you can still create interesting rhythm variations using downstroke strumming only.
In addition, split strumming will improve your accuracy with your strumming hand because it forces you to keep your pick movement minimal through the strings you intend to play. You must concentrate if you want to play only on the bass strings (the thicker ones) and avoid the treble strings. Focusing on this technique helps you gain more control with your strumming hand and will enhance your overall playing.
Strumming from your wrist is a more accurate way to use this technique. If you strum using your elbow instead of your wrist, it becomes much harder to stop strumming through only three strings. It’s more challenging to halt your entire arm than to simply stop your wrist movement. The momentum generated by strumming from your arm or elbow makes it difficult to control and stop. I strum from the wrist as often as possible. Occasionally, I have to incorporate a little elbow movement, but I would say that 95% of the time, I strum from the wrist and achieve everything I need to do.
You can also use this technique in combination with regular strumming, and it definitely sounds different from using only up-and-down strumming patterns. Give it a try and see what combinations you can come up with!
Remember, always have fun with your guitar, and I'll see you next time!
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About Mark Turko: Mark Turko is a professional guitar player and instructor with over 30 years of experience and teaches guitar lessons online.