Whats the difference between the terms “fingerstyle” and “fingerpicking?”
“Fingerpicking” (also called “thumb picking” or “alternating bass”) is a term that is used to describe both a style and a type of music. It falls under the “fingerstyle” heading because it is played by the fingers, but it’s generally used to play a specific type of folk, country-jazz and/or blues music. In this technique, the thumb maintains a steady rhythm on the low strings while the index, or index and middle fingers pick out melody and fill-in notes on the high strings. Originally developed by African American blues guitarists throughout the south imitating the bass and treble of piano rags, it was later adapted by white musicians – most notably Ike Everly, Merle Travis and Chet Atkins – who have created a blues/jazz/country hybrid that is extremely popular. Although usually played on acoustic guitars, Travis himself often played on hollow-body electrics, as do many other players. Q: When shopping on the Homespun website, I click to order an item but when I go to check out the site