Proper Finger Position:
Correct Left Hand Placement:
Being able to play the Classical Guitar with the utmost efficiency is paramount in obtaining the optimal speed, accuracy and tone control. The Classical Guitar is held a bit differently than that of the standard Acoustic Guitar or Steel String Guitar, in that it is cradled between the legs. In this article though, we will concentrate on the left hand positioning, which is not all that different from the Left Hand positioning for any guitar.
1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Finger Positions:
Positioning the fingers of the left hand is of utmost importance. Examine the photo here and you will note that the fingers are placed directly behind the frets. This is important for the following reasons.
It takes the minimum amount of pressure to press the string down directly behind the fret. Also, you do not have to press the string down to the actual wood of the fretboard as you would in the center of the fret. and the note is easiest to sound clearly directly behind the fret.
Additionally, you will note that the fingers in this example, being the index, middle and ring fingers, are arched above the fretboard in such a manner that the tips of the fingers press down the string.
This is important for rapid playing as the fingers can be lifted and pressed down in a more vertical manner rather than by the side of the finger or by having the finger in a more flattened position. This also promotes better air circulation and minimizes perspiration on the fingers.
In our Score or Notation and TABs you will find on this site, we will have each and every note documented as to what is the most appropriate Left Hand finger you should use to press down the string to produce the note. As a general rule though, use the index finger for notes on the 1st fret, middle finger on notes on the 2nd fret, ring finger on the notes on the 3rd fret and the pinky finger for notes on the 4th fret. Also remember that rules for the guitar are meant to be broken, and you will find this one broken quite often.
Left Hand Thumb Position:
Left Hand Thumb Position:
We can’t effectively talk about left hand finger positions without due consideration given to the left hand thumb position. This is probably one of the more important techniques to discuss. Again look at the photo here. Note that the left hand thumb is placed near the center of the neck, or at least on the top half of the back of the neck.
Also notice that the hand basically hangs down from the neck. To do this, just grasp the neck in a similar manner you see here and allow you hand to hang limply down, being only held into position by the fingers on the fretboard and the thumb on the guitar neck. Do you see how the palm of the hand does not even come close to contact with the fretboard?
So holding your hand in this position will give you greater ease in playing, better efficiency in your playing, less hand and finger fatigue and less perspiration from your fingers, and the palm of your hand. Is this a hard position to do? At first it is, yes. As with anything though, if you are taught correctly immediately, it will be much easier than learning it incorrectly and then having to retrain yourself. So look at these photos and finger your guitar as colse to these examples as possible for most situations.
