What is a Plectrum? | Blog
You may have had the pleasure of hearing about (or maybe even used) the pick for guitar, but you may not have seen it before under its alternative name: the plectrum. But what is the definition of a plectrum? What is the difference between them?
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What exactly is a plectrum?
It is believed that the Latin term plectrum is derived from Greek Plektronwhich refers to "something to strike with"--and is exactly what it is: a small flat object used to strumming or pluck the strings of instruments.
Plectra is made of different materials like celluloid, stone, nylon metal and many more. They also come in many varieties of shapes, sizes and sizes. Each of these aspects influence the tone produced by an instrument is played by the plectrum.
Certain plectra must be worn in between the players' fingers, while others have a ring design, and can be worn on the fingertips. For harpsichords there's one plectrum per string. Additionally, a mechanism allows them to be pulled each time users press down on the appropriate key.
What is the difference between the Plectrum and the Pick?
The guitar plectrums are often defined as picks. If you've seen or utilized the teardrop-shaped, slim plectrum constructed of plastic, it's likely that you've heard it called"pick" in reference to a pick.
There is a question to ask: Is there any distinction between a plectrum and a pick? Isn't it the same thing?
In regards to picking guitars and picking guitars, technically they're the same. Picks, however, are just one kind of plectrum. Also, all plectra are picks but none of them can be considered picks.
In fact, plenty of plectra look nothing like a normal guitar pick. There's one example: the Harpsichord. The plectra functions as a way to make a system inside the instrument.
Here are some other examples of plectra you may not be aware of:
- The Japanese biwa is played with the largest triangle-shaped plectrum known as"the bachi. In contrast to the guitar , the bachi can become as huge as or even larger than the palm of the player.
- It is believed that the Middle Eastern oud is played by using a flat, long plectrum known as"the "risha". The rishas of the past were made from eagle feathers and cow Horns.
- The sitar is played by using a metallic plectrum known as the mezrab. It's constructed of an iron piece that is bent to form a shape and is put on the index finger of the player.
The Use of a Plectrum
For this reason, throughout this article, it will focus on using a guitar pick.
Do I Need It?
If you've never played with the pick before, you might be wondering--is it even required? Are you able to be a player without one?
If you're looking to play or record mandolin-related tunes, then you'll need to use instruments. The reason for this is the fact that mandolins have double strings that can make it difficult to play for the fingers. Additionally, it is quite quiet on its own and the pick can aid in amplifying the tone.
The different types of guitar pickings
The two basic kinds of guitar picks are flatpicks and finger picks (not to be confused with the term "fingerpicking", which often is used to describe playing only with your fingers). Learn how to play with the two types:
Flat Picks
For a flatpick put it in a secure position between your index finger and your thumb. Try plucking a string by beginning with a downward movement (starting by placing the pick on high of the string) and then moving in an upward motion (starting with the pick below the string).
You'll be using both upward and downward strokes. Alternating between them is possible in the case of plucked with the same string over and over or alternating on the scale.
Try the instrument. By holding the instrument similarly and strumming it with either one or all of the strings in the direction of downwards or upwards. In addition, you'll alternate between both when you play.
Finger Picks
Finger picks are like flat picksbut have a ring-like appearance and can be used at the tips of your fingers. Most people prefer the three fingers to pick - the index , thumb and middle finger. However, you can use less or more, depending on what you'd prefer.
Fingerpicks are able to use similar movements as you'd play with only your fingers However, you'll get the advantage of a higher volume and brighter sound.
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