E|-------------------------------------7-8-10-- (D-U-D) B|------------------------------7-8-10--------- (D-U-D) G|------------------------7-9-11--------------- (D-U-D) D|-----------------7-9-10---------------------- (D-U-D) A|----------7-9-10----------------------------- (D-U-D) E|---7-8-10------------------------------------ (D-U-D) D U D D U D D U D D U D D U D D U D ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ (Swept/Economy strokes) Use code with caution. Exercise 2: The Descending Sweep
The Speed Picking PDF is not just a random collection of exercises; it’s a systematic breakdown of Gambale’s mechanics. Here are the essential technical pillars from the book:
Rest the pick on the subsequent string after each stroke (rest-stroking) to ensure maximum control. frank gambale speed picking pdf top
The fundamental principle of Frank Gambale's approach is . Unlike standard alternate picking (down-up-down-up), Gambale’s system dictates that whenever you cross to a new string, you should use a single continuous stroke in the direction of the move.
Sweeping can sometimes cause players to rush. Ensure each note lands precisely on the click of your metronome. The fundamental principle of Frank Gambale's approach is
The fundamental goal is to achieve "economy of motion". Instead of strict alternate picking (down-up-down-up), Gambale uses the direction of travel to determine the pick stroke.
Frank Gambale changed the game by proving that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line—or in this case, a single stroke. By incorporating these "speed picking" principles into your daily routine, you'll break through the speed plateaus that hold back traditional alternate pickers. Ensure each note lands precisely on the click
The fundamental premise of the book is that many guitarists struggle not with their fretting hand, but with an inefficient picking hand. Gambale introduces "Speed Picking" as a system to reduce the amount of work your right hand has to do. He explains that while (strictly alternating down-up strokes) is excellent, it is not the most practical method for arpeggios or string-crossing lines, and can even be "pretty bad" for some players.
To truly master this style, studying from the source is essential. Here are the top Frank Gambale instructional products:
Look at the transitions. You are never "skipping" over a string and coming back. You are riding the momentum of the previous stroke into the next string.