Travis Picking refers to a fingerpicking pattern that makes use of an alternating bass. On the four-string ukulele, the right hand can fingerpick outside strings alternating with the inside strings using two, three, or four fingers. We explore five different variations in exercises for both low G and high G ukuleles in this blog post.
American country and western singer, songwriter, and guitarist Merle Robert Travis (1917 – 1983) is credited with originating a guitar fingerpicking pattern that uses the thumb to alternate between two strings.
Travis Picking is heard in a lot of folk songs.
It’s possible to fingerpick with just two fingers (thumb and index).
Then try three fingers (thumb, index, and middle).
Finally use, all four fingers (thumb, index, middle, and ring finger).
Practice suggestions
Don’t immediately jump into using pima fingers (four fingers of right hand). Try using just the thumb and index. Then thumb, index, and middle. Repeat each section until fluid and fluent.
Can you come up with your own variation on Travis Picking?
More information
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