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Fingerpicking Foundations

4 weeks · from strumming to picking

Transition from strumming to fingerstyle. Start with simple patterns on chords you already know, then tackle fingerpicking classics.

1

Basic patterns on Em and Am

Learn the thumb-index-middle pattern on two familiar chords. Keep it slow, keep it even.

Em
23
Open
Am
×231
Open

Songs you can play after this week

2

Add C and G patterns

Expand your picking to chords with wider stretches. The bass note changes — your thumb follows.

C
×321
Open
G
213
Open

Songs you can play after this week

3

Travis picking basics

Alternating bass with your thumb while your fingers pick melody. D and A are perfect for this.

D
××132
Open
A
×123
Open

Songs you can play after this week

4

Putting it together

Full fingerpicking songs. Dust in the Wind, Blackbird, Hallelujah — the classics that sound amazing with just one guitar.

E
231
Open
F major (E-shape barre)
1342
Barre

Songs you can play after this week