Sweep Picking
A guitar technique that involves playing arpeggios by sweeping the pick across multiple strings in a single, fluid motion.
Sweep picking is a popular technique in various music styles, such as metal, jazz, and neoclassical, as it allows guitarists to play arpeggios at high speeds with a smooth, connected sound. The technique requires precise coordination between the picking and fretting hands, as well as control of the pick’s angle and movement. When executed correctly, sweep picking produces a seamless stream of notes with minimal noise from unwanted string vibrations.
To practice sweep picking, guitarists often start with simple two or three-string patterns, gradually working their way up to more complex shapes that span the entire fretboard. Developing a clean, consistent sweep picking technique requires patience and dedicated practice, but the results can greatly expand a player’s musical vocabulary and technical abilities.
Check out these Licklibrary guitar Lessons and Courses to learn more about sweep picking on guitar.
Five note sweep picking - Part 3 - Pentatonic Groups
Guthrie Govan - Technique modules - Sweep Picking
Andy James - Full shred ahead - Sweep Picking Pentatonics
