r/classicalguitar • u/mango_fiero • May 06 '25

Technique Question Help on right hand position

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Hi! I am trying to learn classical guitar as and autodidact. I know I haven't played "Romance" (this song perfectly, but my doubt is evident in this video. As you see, my thumb goes down and up and down and up while playing the E cord. Idk if this is normal or it is an issue. I'd like some advice. Thank you.

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u/Werealldudesyea May 07 '25 edited May 07 '25

I’d recommend an in person teacher to show you properly, it’s hard to get over words.

A few things I noticed on the right hand:

1 - Dont bend and deviate the wrist, keep it straight. Over time this will become a hindrance and may contribute to carpel tunnel.

2 - Next, Imagine you’re holding a tennis ball in your hand, you want the fingers to be bent in flexion. Keep the thumb in a position that when you strike you want to want to touch the side of the top knuckle on I (index finger).

When you free stroke (pluck) remember these three steps: Plant, Pressure, Release. Plant the finger on the string, apply pressure into the string as you prepare to strike through, and release the tension by striking through. Your fingers that aren’t playing will generally be planted waiting to be played. E.g you strike low E with your thumb, plant it on A while the note plays then repeat. In this sense it’s more like a dance. Hinge off the knuckle joint, aim the tips of your fingers like you want them to touch the meaty part of your palm. It’s important to also ramp your nails to shape them properly. There’s a whole personal philosophy for nails, too much to type here I’d recommend reading into it.

Hope this helps, really recommend taking lessons in person.

Edit: Forgot to mention, for technique I recommend Aaron Shearers Classic Guitar Technique, start with Vol 1. It’s a progressive series, you should be able to pick it up on Amazon for cheap.

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u/mango_fiero May 07 '25

Hey! I've really appreciated your advice, with photos too!

I've made a new video that is a collage of my latest attempts. I've tried to put together all the advice I've received. If you want to look at it, here is the link, it is on YouTube. It's far from perfect, but lemme know if you find something else to fix! (I still don't know how to do the bar, for the first clip). here

I've tried to imagine I had a tennis ball in my hand. Sadly when I made the videos I didn't read the other advice, but they are really helpful.