Hi, I’m beginner grade 3 (second time around, re- done again after app update) and have used thin picks at the start of my journey
Now i know they’re necessary especially when you first start out but I found over time I just love the feel of the Dunlop jazz 3 and generally have much better control , less slipping/ spinning and much better for single notes.
My main issue is strumming with the thicker pick, it might just be tension? but I am having issues with controlling how hard or softly I’m actually strumming and keeping it consistent throughout a song, especially single strums like the intro to Maggie May on the app IE single strums C, Dm, F, C , I’m either too hard or barely hit the strings at all,
I’m playing with electric guitar , any advice much appreciated,
Thanks, Brian.
Hi Brian -
I suspect that as you suggest it is probably too much tension in your strumming hand and holding the pick too tightly. It is certainly possible to strum lightly with a regular red jazz iii - I used them exclusively on electric and acoustic for over a year. Personally I like thicker picks but it’s been a long journey to get here - and I hold picks pretty lightly.
If you like the jazz iii size, why not try a thinner variety - I think they do them down to 0.5 or 0.6 mm
Yes it probably is just tension, I’ll probably work on relaxing, maybe slowing things down a little, i have tried many different picks over the years but always end up going back to the red jazz 3 ,
I will have a look at the thinner versions though, I wasn’t aware of those, thanks for your advice 
Try working up from thinner picks. I couldn’t use a thing other than those paper thin ones for ages and now use a thicker nylon pick but it was a gradual thing.
I have some jazz iii picks and they don’t feel right still for me but it’s better than it was.
@Bluesboy_Bri
You should probably do as Rick says. Or you could just instead of using the pick, work on fingerstyle where you your thumb always plays the thickest 3 strings, pointer finger plays the 3rd string, middle finger plays the 2nd string, and ring finger plays the 4th string.
Hi, thanks for all your advice, I have gone through my pick tin and have reassessing them all and although i prefer the jazz 3 ( mainly because I can control it better than the thinner ones) I’ve found a Dunlop.88 which is more comfortable for strumming but also rigid enough to pick out single notes,
I just can’t use the smooth tortex or similar picks they just spin far too much for me when strumming.
I’m trying to play as loose as possible when strumming but obviously trying to stop the pick spinning.
Anyway thanks again, all advice much appreciated, Brian.
Keep in mind that if you are holding a pick lightly (as you should) then it will move in your hand when you strum. The ‘secret’ is to manipulate it as you play. I am constantly adjusting my pick as I strum, little micro adjustments. I still find some pick shapes easier to hold and manipulate, but they will all move unless you are holding them too tightly.
Yes i guess i need to take a look at manipulation technique, it’s just so frustrating especially when you’ve been playing for years on and off,
I think I’ll spend a few minutes during my practice routine just strumming a single chord so I can try and improve a little,
Thanks again,
Brian.