Hi Guys
I have developed speed by using the following approach:
1. Considering the fingering options for the passage I wish to play. Working out the most efficient way to progress through the notes.
2. I do the same with my right hand. I typically approach everything using alternate picking (Steve Morse) or legato ala Satch. I can play most things by picking every note, but often prefer the legato tone. I will try and identify where my pick stroke needs to commence, and then go from there.
I have dabbled with economy picking, but I decided it didn't work for me.
3. I then start playing the piece extremely slowly. I will work on playing a note every few seconds, and observe my hands for efficiency and lack of tension as I do so. When I am confident I understand the mechanics of what I am doing, and have a good idea of the flow of the piece/passage, I introduce tempo. I often play at around 15 BPM. When I am confident with this, I speed up. Sometimes I can jump straight up to full tempo, other times I move up in small increments.
While this requires patience, I find that I achieve the end results faster than jumping in at half speed or so and bashing away at it.
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