Travis Picking Made Ridiculously Simple: A Tutorial

[@DoowopJeff]

Dennis, I’ve made many attempts at learning Travis picking over the years. Just couldn’t get it. Seemed like my brain and fingers couldn’t get together on it. Sometimes I could do it for one measure of a song. Then I’d lose it completely. Over the years I tried various books and video tutorials on Travis or alternate thumb playing. Nothing worked for me. Today, at age 75, I happened on your “Travis picking made ridiculously simple” video on KZbin. I gave it a shot and it worked! Within minutes I was playing like I’ve wanted to all these years. Thank you so much for this game changer! Jeff in NJ

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome Jeff. Once you assign the pattern to muscle memory, the next step is to learn the bass notes of each chord and practice changing between chords. Please review my newer tutorials as each offers something new to reenforce this concept of Travis picking. Tell you what, check out my lesson “How to play ‘Caravan of Fools.’” I think this lesson will be helpful for you. Cheers my friend. Thanks for stopping by and for taking the time to comment. Good luck in your quest to become a proficient Travis picker. Please share this video and any of my lessons with your friends who may be interested in learning this technique.

[@DoowopJeff]

@@DennisAnthonis Working on Caravan of Fools now. “Three chords and the truth”, right?

[@DennisAnthonis]

@@DoowopJeff …exactly, John Prine proved that.

[@DennisAnthonis]

I don’t know if you feel you’ve progressed enough on your pattern to try this. Regardless, this lesson will help you in your quest to learn this pattern. Try it and let me know. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqmnhGxnoqtma80si=eeasFYAvltVMZTWV

[@rachelcook5697]

Y🎉ayyyyyy

[@dimwitsadvocate6264]

"You may never want to strum another song again" - that is music to my ears! I'm so excited!!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Dimwits Advocate ... .yeah, just be persistent. Start out slow. Practice at least 15 minutes a day. Use a metronome. Check out each of my tutorials. Although there is some repetition in each, there is also something new or original in each one too. Good luck my fiend.

[@dimwitsadvocate6264]

@@DennisAnthonis I looked at your channel and will check out your other tutorials as well. And I will practice at least 15 minutes a day and I'm sure longer. I will take all this advice. Thank you! And of course, I Liked, Subscribed and turned on Notifications.

[@DennisAnthonis]

I think I mentioned at the very beginning that the capo was on the 2nd fret.

[@KDVSmith]

Month 7 of my self-taught/KZbin guitar journey... now it’s time learn some Travis picking. This video was a helpful insight into the genre of picking that I’ve always revered. Thank you sir!

[@DennisAnthonis]

.. Thank you very much for taking the time to comment. I hope the tutorials help you in your quest to learn this fun pattern for any song in 4/4 time. Cheers my friend.

[@joq702]

I am a learner of guitar since the pandemic began in 2020. I could play basic chords before the pandemic but sounded blah. KZbin has helped me immensely, and I thank you so much Mr. Anthony’s for sharing this with all. My major breakthrough for improvement in late 2020 was learning to get out of strumming and try to better express my songs through my own style which meant I needed to become a fingerstyle picker which I have always preferred in acoustic guitar, folk songs. I started by by what I like to call farting around individually, string by string (in no order, rather random) inside the structures of major chords. The #1 thing I learned to accept was that I would make mistakes, sound bad for awhile, not have perfect beat and rhythm, and of course have those delayed transitions to quit stepping on my feet into the next chord frame. But, one night I did it better just enough to finally hear my wife say, “I thought that was someone else playing on youtube. That sounded nice. What was that?” What I realized is that I was not expressing myself when I strummed. Learning to pick inside a chord structure with some tutorials like Dennis has shown will also teach you that perfect Travis style picking is a technique, but only your end technique truly defines your signature of playing. We know it when we hear certain players play. Learn to be you also. There are some people like me that think they are Travis picking, but I have been told that it is my own technique, not perfect, but very good. I have my own style and it works, is allowing me to express myself and keep beat and rhythm. As I learned, I knew I may not sound great each and every time. All of a sudden one week, it all clicked and my fingers and timing were like a race horse. All working in synchronicity. My ah aha and muscle memory moment (without really thinking as he says) happened inside one or two major chords (G and C) and I just kept practicing that sequence inside both chords (back and forth) for about 30 minutes over and over. Drove my wife crazy! Two chords, then three. I used this technique for about two weeks straight, not ever strumming, but only rhythmically picking inside the chords of a song I loved: Don’t think twice it’s alright, by Bob Dylan. The transitions without thinking followed after about a month it seemed. I do not even know if my rythms and string sequences the way I pick are truly Travis style, but people always compliment me on the style. MAKE IT YOUR OWN inside the structure of chords and you will advance faster than anyone can ever teach you. But you have to be willing to be clumsy along that path. It is like a factory line worker. You will get it to the point where each chord you play will feel safe and your muscles in your fingers will not step on each other. It does become automatic, like walking. Making mistakes is 100% okay, so do not care what you think or others think along the way. You’ll one day find you can do it!! Best of all, you no longer will be trapped inside the strumming of chords which gets to sound boring as hell after awhile. Add your personal expression by learning to fumble around and pick inside the chord frames with Dennis’ taught technique, or your own, and you’ll soon have a finger picking style that only has your signature on it.

[@DennisAnthonis]

I was just trying to teach an "alternating-bass, Merle Travis style, finger-picking pattern" for beginners to get them started. I didn't intend for anyone to get too specific or opinionated about it all. After learning the pattern, by all means put a palm-mute on it if you want that Rockabilly or Americana sound! I felt it was more important to focus on the pattern and the timing without simultaneously introducing another technique such as "palm-muting." That would only make the lesson more difficult for the beginner. For people who prefer the sound of a thumb pick, by all means use it. Some prefer the softer sound of the fleshy pad of the thumb. Anyway, just sayin'. Peace out. Oh, and stay tuned ... I've got another lesson in the works dedicated to learning this technique faster and easier.

[@scottonandrew]

Of course there is a lot of different patterns in Travis picking, but you have to start somewhere and get the moves under your fingers. Thank you for this video, very well done. No good deed i guess....

[@MrArchie765]

Thank you, that lesson was very helpful!

[@tjstevens001]

And thanks again for what you do!

[@joemartin4040]

Looking forward to new lesson. Thank you.

[@DennisAnthonis]

@@joemartin4040… Thanks Joe. I just recently posted another Travis picking lesson, “How to Fingerpick ‘Just Like That’ by Bonnie Raitt.” If you haven’t yet learned this pattern, this lesson will finally get you over the hump. Anyway, I appreciate your support.

[@Dixie478]

Hi Dennis, I would just like to thank you so much for making me so happy with this wonderful lesson on Travis picking. I am 69 years old and have been playing the guitar for almost 40 years and in all of that time I just got so fed up strumming out songs day in and day out that I eventually stopped playing because of the boredom of it all. There was no magic sound, no magic feeling and no magic anticipation in my heart when I picked up my guitar to play, until one day last week I stumbled upon your video by mere chance. Now, thanks to you Dennis I am up at cockcrow each morning with a coffee in one hand and my guitar in the other, I honestly to say that I just can`t put my guitar down since I learned to play this beautiful sounding alternative to strumming. Thank you so much Dennis for bringing so much joy into an old Hippy`s life.

[@DennisAnthonis]

... You’re welcome Martin. Please check out my two latest KZbin posts, the start of a series of posts designed to teach this concept.. Look for Lesson 1 and lesson 2. If you subscribe, you’ll be notified when Lesson 3 comes out. next week. Please share my videos with musician friends who may be interested in learning this technique. Cheers my friend.

[@rayturner6088]

Hi Dennis. ive been strumming the guitar for 35 yrs i know all chords barre chords but never got into picking. You have made me sound better in 10 minutes. thanks a million ray

[@DennisAnthonis]

Ray Turner ... You’re welcome Ray. I’m sure you’ll become a good fingerpicking troubadour within a short time. I remember the elation I experienced when I learned how to do this. Keep it up Ray!

[@trusarmor4957]

this is one of those youtube gems that should have 5 million views. great vid.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks my friend; that’s a wonderful compliment. This was my first tutorial on the subject. Since then, I’ve prepared other videos with better illustrations and diagrams; please check them out. And again, thanks for stopping by. I appreciate your support. Cheers from St. Louis.

[@christopherwelch9438]

There's HUNDREDS of tutorials on KZbin on Travis Picking and you explain it the best. What you're playing is what I hear in songs. Thanks man!

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome Christopher. Keep practicing, every day, even if it’s only for 15 minutes. Concentrate on precision and accuracy. Speed will come automatically. Stay tuned. I’m about to post a lesson on how to Travis pick “Just Breathe” by Eddie Vedder. Fun little song. Cheers my friend.

[@stevenvangent6770]

It aint travis picking

[@christopherwelch9438]

@@stevenvangent6770 make a video teaching it then

[@someoneelse.2252]

Have stuttered and faltered for a long time trying to master this picking style correctly. Your diagrams and expanations helped me no end! Much appreciation from Canada.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Pat TheHombre ... Thank you Pat. I’m glad you found this helpful. Interestingly enough, you are the first to state that it helped. For many, this technique proves difficult. I suspect they simply give up too soon. You just have to push through and keep practicing. It eventually happens. When it does, it’s like an epiphany. I appreciate you taking the time to comment. Cheers Pat!

[@donnieneylon5519]

@@DennisAnthonis Very good tutorial! I got really into American folk and really had to learn this style. I chose one song, "You don't care for me enough to cry" by John Moreland and stuck with it. I probably averaged close to an hour practice everyday for 6-8 weeks until I had the song, intro and all down. Then I really had that epiphany when i turned to other songs that I could strum and use the same basic travis pluck and they sounded great, songs from Blaze Foley, TVZ, John Prine, it even provides a great twist on some pop songs. It probably took me another 6-8 weeks before I could just play without really thinking about what I was doing. I am a very inexperienced guitar player, basic chord strumming stuff, so I think the message is this is a good resource, stick it out and you'll get there!

[@timmurden5846]

Hi Dennis, I'm 60 years old and have just started to learn this technique with the help of your video, I'm struggling tbh but will try and stick with it and see if there's any improvement, your instruction is very clear and concise and has definitely boosted my confidence that I'll eventually 'get it' 👍🏻

[@DennisAnthonis]

... Hi Tim. Don’t forget that once you get through assigning the pattern to muscle memory, your next homework assignment is to hone in on timing and then speed and accuracy almost comes naturally and intuitively. Changing chords is only limited by your fretting hand. The right hand just keeps maintaining the pace. Also, keep in mind that you can move the pattern amongst different strings. Review the other tutorials. Stay tuned; I’ve got some things in the works. Cheers my friend.

[@dayc5933]

You can do this, just keep practicing!

[@Exodus1414KeepStill]

It’s hard for me to express the gratitude I feel after watching your video. I’ve been trying to do this for years. I’ve been a strumming for almost 10 years and I was all about ready to give up till I saw this. Thank you

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome. Once you master the pattern, changing chords will be easy. Good luck my friend.

[@tedbryer2512]

It sure helped Me too Sam. Finally I can master this. Best wishes from Perth Ontario Canada.

[@GirishVenkatachalam]

I agree, his teaching ability seems a great deal better than most other guitarists and thereby instills a sense of approachability in newbies.

[@tranghamilton570]

English is my second language, I tryed from many different KZbinr in few years to learn travis picking but never get it. This is the Best, so simple, I learned only in 1 day (of cause still slow, I need to practice more) thanks a lot from Canada 💖

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome my friend. Yes, don’t worry about playing fast right now; it’s better to work on accuracy in the beginning. Speed will come later, automatically. Check out my other tutorials on Travis picking. Some are repetitive in some way of course, but there is something new and worthwhile in each lesson. Stay tuned, I’m getting ready to upload another Travis picking tutorial that I’m sure will bring it all together for you. Thanks for tuning in.

[@terridarcangelo3795]

Dennis! You rock! Travis picking is finally clear to me after watching this. To able to play this style is the reason I started playing guitar over a year ago. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

[@DennisAnthonis]

... Thanks Terri! I’m glad the lessons are helping you.

[@1774jp]

Old man but newish at guitar here. This is my fifth attempt at Travis picking and it finally clicked for me. Thanks!

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome John. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Now that you’ve succeeded in learning the pattern, it now becomes your goal to to learn to change chords quickly and precisely while maintaining the pattern. I’m going to purchase new strings today and post another song lesson, “Just Like That” by Bonnie Raitt. Start listening to it and familiarize yourself with it. This lesson will be beneficial to you in your continuing quest to Travis pick. Cheers my friend.

[@domburgess4633]

it's really ALL about the thumb never stopping - it is a separate unit doing it's own thing. I have tried to zone my brain into channels and the thumb has it's own channel and works on and on until it just does it without a definitive thought process . Then add the fingers slowly as you suggest but KEEP the thumb bouncing 6,4,5,4 boom boom boom boom ...it drives the music - it's your drum giving the rhythm ...your lesson is spot on and I thank you for sharing it with us.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Dom Burgess ... Thanks for listening and for the comment. Coordinating independent movement between the thumb and fingers is not easy for most people. One needs to be persistent and practice diligently for about a month before the whole scheme becomes manageable. But once muscle memory kicks in, you’re home free.

[@nathandudar5822]

Best Travis picking explanation on KZbin. Thanks!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thank you Nathan. This is the video that started it all. My later productions have better graphics and diagrams. Please check them out. Once you master the pattern, you’ll be able to play so many songs. Good luck my friend.

[@SuperGeorgeGlass]

I started this picking style, or a slight variation of it, some time ago and it's crazy how many songs you can sing using this style. Varying the speed of the picking adds an extra dimension also. Great tutorial. Thanks.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Yes George... at times the steady rhythm of 4/4 time is what the song calls for (most of the time). However, there are always instances when a more free-form rhythm can be alluring and add another dimension. Hey, check out my most recent upload, "If I Needed You" by Townes Van Zandt; its another great song best played by Travis picking. Cheers my friend!

[@solice8844]

I learned this Travis picking when I started playing the songs of Peter, Paul, and Mary very early in my guitar lessons. I did so by playing along with the record in order to get the timing down. After awhile I got so good at it. My guitar instructor couldn’t do it. I’ve been a finger picker and rarely a strummer my entire playing life.

[@DennisAnthonis]

solice8844 .... me too. I’m afraid of a flat pick!

[@JR-pr8jb]

As an old armchair picker, I've never "strummed" in my life. I think you have to be some young guy sitting around a campfire. But it ain't music.

[@michaelplouff5694]

I have been playing guitar for many years but only strumming chords. This has been so enlighting and helpful. As you say in your video after a week I have made real progress learning travis picking. Thank for all you do.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks Michael. I’m glad the lesson was helpful. Remember, once you assign the pattern to muscle memory and then practice changing between chords while maintaining the rhythm…. You’ll be on your way to something magical. Cheers my friend. Stay tuned, I’ve got some new lessons in the works. I’m hoping my hands heal so I can get back to work.

[@DennisAnthonis]

When you’re ready try this. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqmnhGxnoqtma80si=eeasFYAvltVMZTWV

[@rolennon]

Man.... I love you! Thanks sooooooooo much .... is the best and easiest lesson on travis picking . I'm soooooo glad thanks to you

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome my friend. Don’t forget, this was the first lesson I produced. Follow-up lessons are greatly improved and perhaps more easily viewed. Each lesson offers something new that will help you grasp this more easily. Good luck my friend. You’ll be ecstatic when you learn this. I remember how ecstatic I felt when I finally got it.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Don’t forget to look at the other lessons I prepared. I believe they’re better and will certainly help. Each tutorial offers something new that will help solidify the concept. Cheers my friend.

[@DavidChadderton-g7d]

Thank you Dennis.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks for listening and for taking the time to comment. I appreciate your support.

[@DavidChadderton-g7d]

@@DennisAnthonis I'm an early learner, although very mature in age, and have pasted your fingering onto the front of my study book. It's my immediate target to pursue along with changing chords and simple riffs. Cheers. David Ballarat

[@DennisAnthonis]

@@DavidChadderton-g7d excellent approach!

[@repsyke1991]

Dennis, quick bit of info.Dennis Payton,sax player of the dave clark five, made me my first ever guitar back in 1958 and i have been hooked ever since,i packed up gigging ten yrs ago,my but my confidence as a guitar player ever since i retired had been shattered ,as i have never been able to get the hang of travis picking.i had at looked at hundreds of tutorials and i swear i was going looney ,but withing 3 weeks of finding yr tutorial, i was doing the alternating bass and i did not even realize i was doing it. how could i ever thank you.with kindest regards from.richard in folkestone uk.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Your kind words here is thanks enough. Nevertheless, I encourage you to try to view each of my tutorials on Travis Picking. Although parts of each one are repetitive to an extent, at the same time, there is something unique about each lesson for you to take away from each lesson. Anyway, good luck with this and your quest to become a better guitarist. Cheers buddy.

[@lemmonsAREyellow]

thanks for sharing this !!! Have a few tunes that I can’t wait to put to this pattern !!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Yes, it’s a great pattern for any song in 4/4 time. Have a good time with this my friend.

[@erolgermannemmanuel5637]

😊Dear Dennis, one more time thanks for the fine help, now I can finally play the blues finger style!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks for this question Erol. You’ve probably already figured out that alternating-bass Travis-style fingerpicking is impossible to execute in 3/4 time. When I do a song in 3/4 time I usually just resort to arpeggiating each measure, from the bass note down (thicker to thinner). Arpeggiating works well for 6/8 time as well. Try searching (in KZbin) “Fingerpicking in 3/4 time.” I would post something but to be honest but I’m not the one to ask as I feel comfortable with having assigned this pattern to muscle memory so I pretty much stick to songs in 4/4 time. I’m sure I’ve covered at least one song in waltz time although it doesn’t immediately come to. mind; I’ll have to look. If I did a song in 3/4 time, I aepeggiated it because I rarely strumI hope this helps. Cheers my friend. Thanks for watching my channel.

[@cynthiapadget5770]

Thank you so much! I just started playing guitar again after learning it many years ago as a child. I never learned this technique, I tried, but I couldn't learn it by watching. I have stopped and repeated certain sections. I am finally getting it, and I am so happy to be making progress! Bless you for sharing your technique here. Thank you!

[@DennisAnthonis]

... You’re welcome Cynthia. Be sure to check out the later tutorials too. I think the diagrams and illustrations are better. Remember, start out slow focusing more on precision and accuracy: speed will come naturally. You’ll be Travis picking soon. Remember, 15 minutes each day is more effective than 2 hours on the weekend. However, if one of those 15 minute days turns into an hour every once in a while. Cheers my friend. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment.

[@TheTinker6871]

Dennis, First off, I don't want to come off as snotty, or a know it all but while this lesson is a great service to people to start to learn Travis picking, it's actually not. Its still pattern picking. True travis picking is total thumb independence, while playing a melody with the fingers, more difficult still than pattern picking. Tommy Emmanuel explains this perfectly in many of his videos, even hitting on the differences of what I'm talking about. BUT, what you're teaching is the first step I learned back in the day, which is very helpful.

[@DennisAnthonis]

TheTinker6871 ...Thanks my friend. I’ve had discussions with others regarding the definition of Travis picking. Some profess it isn’t really Travis picking because I don’t palm-mute it. Others insist you need to use a thumb pick. Neither of these claims are prerequisites for Travis picking. And yes, it is “pattern picking. I believe one must learn this first, before adding melody lines. I’m getting ready to post a song, “Clay Pigeons” by Blaze Foley, where I introduce the melody line. Stay tuned. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment. Cheers buddy.

[@TheTinker6871]

@@DennisAnthonis You're right on all counts. Only thing I can add for your viewers is this was one of the hardest things to learn on the guitar. It wont happen over night. But sooo worth it. Keep on pickin

[@Mikael1948]

Thanks for a great lesson! I will try to do my best, this tutorial was my rescue! Greeting from Åge Øvrebø, Norway

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome my friend. I’m glad my tutorials are helping you learn this technique. I appreciate you taking the time to comment. Cheers from St. Louis.

[@douglassmith3901]

This has been a tremendous help. It has provided a great base of understanding for me, especially the idea of Travis picking being a way to "express a chord over time." Thanks for the great instructional video.

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome Doug. You’ll get it my friend; patience, practice. Good luck, and thanks for watching.

[@hollydoodle]

Thank you so much. This is going to be my Minnesnowta winter project 🙂

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks Holly. I’ve always believed that at least 15 minutes each day will enable any aspiring guitar player to learn this Travis-style fingerpicking technique. And yes, winters in Minnesota will provide even more time to devote to it. Good luck. Have you seen my other tutorials? Maybe check those out too. Stay warm . Cheers from St. Louis.

[@miahanning8115]

Absolutely spot on tutorial, you covered it beautifully. not sure about only a week, what about slow learners! Loved it, keep on keeping on

[@DennisAnthonis]

Hi Mia. Yes, the learning curve on this varies. However, persistence prevails and repetition will ultimately assure success. Remember, 15 minutes each day is better than 2 hours on a Saturday. Also, this was my first tutorial video; since then, I’ve produced better videos with better diagrams and better illustrations. Please refer to them, as I’m sure they will help. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Please subscribe to my channel and share my videos with your musician friends who may be interested in learning this technique. Cheers my friend.

[@mitre1]

That was the best guitar lesson I’ve ever seen. Thanks

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks for watching. I appreciate you taking the time to comment.

[@carolynparral8434]

Good lesson ... New sub !!! 😊

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thank you. Learn this pattern and be ready to learn “Just Like That” by Bonnie Raitt. That’s going to be my next lesson and I hope to upload it soon. Do you sing?

[@williambennett26]

I currently finger pick with a thumb base pluck and three figerrs a comparatively loose pattern that allows me to feel out the song. Intrigued to discover whether the seemingly more regimented travis picking will allow me to do similar. Will let you know. Many thanks.

[@MISTERDMV]

Thanks for posting this. I enjoy your easy going verbal style.I want to add my voice to others you've heard about how your teaching style helped them finally learn the technique. I struggled to learn this until I came across this KZbin post. Take care friend.

[@DennisAnthonis]

MISTERDMV ... Thanks for visiting and taking the time to comment. I’m glad the lessons are helpful. Stay tuned, I’ve got another in the works.

[@stevefreedman3130]

Thanks so much Dennis. I will get to this asap and then send you a comment. Be well.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Please do!

[@peterrodrigues4427]

Thank you very much. Very beautiful display.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks for watching. I hope my tutorials are helpful. Will continue producing tutorials once my trigger finger is fixed.

[@northamericanrobotics7947]

NOW I know what I'M doing all weekend ;-) BEST TIP EVER - you MNEMONIC !: "PAIR, INNER OUTER THUMB" When some tiny nugget like THIS makes the REAL "pattern" becone UNDERSTOOD... THIS is the little epiphanies we LOVE !...

[@DennisAnthonis]

NORTH AMERICAN ROBOTICS ... Wonderful my friend; I’m glad the tutorials are helpful. I’m sure if you practice every day you’ll become proficient very soon. I’ve been a little inactive lately but I have some things in the works. Stay tuned. And thanks for subscribing! Cheers from St. Louis MO.

[@aman1245singh]

Seriously saw so many videos on travic picking and mostly they confuse 😑. But you have made it so clear just the diagram made it so very helpful. Thanks sir. Greetings from India

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks Singh. I’m fortunate in that my wife is a graphic artist. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to to comment. Cheers from St. Louis MO USA.

[@aman1245singh]

@@DennisAnthonis 😀😀😀 wife is life

[@DennisAnthonis]

@@aman1245singh ...True that buddy. going on 39 years.

[@aman1245singh]

@@DennisAnthonis wow. Many congratulations. ❤❤

[@tevearland3694]

This is my first subscribe ever ....... AMAZING and Clear ......Excellent Dennis. Thanks

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks for letting me be the first person you’ve subscribed to. I’m flattered. I’ve been a little under the weather lately but please stay tuned; I’m working on a couple projects. Cheers my friend.

[@edgardosoriano4864]

Tnx Dennis for great simple lesson.

[@DennisAnthonis]

... You’re welcome Edgardo. I hope all of my lessons are helping you expand your guitar playing.

[@als4817]

Great video, clear, well explained and very helpful! Thank you for posting , it's a real boost to finally get me to ' pinch ' within the context of a finder picking pattern, Have always struggled with that ? Thank you for posting !

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome Al. My thought process with the “pinch” was to create a starting point for each measure that beginning students could focus on in order to get a song going. For this pattern at least, the pinch always occurs on downbeat “1.” After that, the pattern remains the same. But I urge beginners to eventually learn to begin each measure without the pinch as well; in many instances, certain songs and certain measures within a song will sound better without the pinch, especially when you’re running two or three (or more even) measures together, as I demonstrate in this lesson. Also, please refer to some of my other lessons and exercises to help you if needed. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Cheers my friend.!

[@als4817]

@@DennisAnthonis Thank you again, going to work on it, alternating seems so easy, it's the pinch where I struggle.

[@DennisAnthonis]

@@als4817 …. You’ll get it. Persistence, practice, repetition, muscle memory,

[@millerk115]

I love visuals.. it was super helpful. Thank you!

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome my friend.

[@chuckHart70]

Dennis thanks for sharing. It is so appreciated by everyone. Thanks again!

[@DennisAnthonis]

chuckHart70 .... You’re welcome. I remember when I finally got this. I was truly elated. But it’s not easy and I’m just trying to help as many people figure it out so they can be elated too. Thanks for listening and taking the time to comment. Cheers my friend.

[@peregrinegrace8570]

Fantastic lesson Thanks 😊 And what a lovely tune. Just what i want to learn. Got any more... ?

[@DennisAnthonis]

This was my first attempt at a lesson. I’ve produced a few more that are better with improved diagrams. Check them out. Thanks for stopping by.

[@peregrinegrace8570]

@@DennisAnthonis Thanks, heading there now. Keep up the good work 😊

[@DennisAnthonis]

@@peregrinegrace8570 Thanks my friend.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Yeah, here’s one. Give it a good look. Cheers buddy. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqmnhGxnoqtma80si=eeasFYAvltVMZTWV

[@robertwadeexpertkidsdentist]

Thanks!

[@lynm4335]

Thank you Dennis 😊

[@DennisAnthonis]

@@lynm4335 … You’re welcome my friend. I hope the lessons are helpful.

[@yudipitre5720]

First time I see you subscribed a beginner Thank you for doing this.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks Yudi. Greetings from St. Louis, MO USA.

[@MartinoSolla]

Just clear, very appreciate. Thanks and cheers from Ichnos

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks for listening and taking the time to comment. I appreciate your support. I’ve currently developed trigger finger on the middle finger of my fretting hand and need to see a hand specialist. I haven’t played the guitar for months. I hope to be back one day. I hope you have a Merry Christmas.

[@MartinoSolla]

@@DennisAnthonis Thanks and merry Christmas to you! Have a nice day!

[@websurfer1585]

i always assumed I'd never be able to get fingerstyle guitar, but having tried this i realise i really can grasp this technique, and really do want to because it sounds so nice.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Web Surfer ... That’s great news Grasping the concept of Travis picking can be a daunting task in the beginning. Coordinating the thumb and fingers to work together like this takes time and must be taken slow at first before attempting it fast. Please see my other tutorials on Travis picking. Although repetitious in ways, there is something new or unique in each lesson. Fifteen minutes a day will enable you assign the pattern to muscle memory. Congratulations, you’re on your way to becoming a fingerpicker! Keep me posted!

[@websurfer1585]

@@DennisAnthonis Thanks i will.

[@smartassan]

Really helpful. Until this video, I couldn't get my head around this but you made it so clear. Thank you.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Once you assign the pattern to muscle memory it becomes easier. Then it becomes a matter of learning to switch between chords with speed and accuracy. Try this approach: pick a song and learn those chords. Practice singing while you play. Then try another song with different chords. It’s a good way to increase your chord library. Good luck my friend. Subscribe and hit the notification button to receive future lessons. I’ve got a couple things in the works.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Maybe you’re ready for this. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqmnhGxnoqtma80si=eeasFYAvltVMZTWV

[@rachelcook5697]

Just Give it One Day... You will be well on your way ... I like that .great video

[@DennisAnthonis]

Yes! Thank you!

[@vsatya4364]

Thank you! Sir. Your detailed instructions with fret diagrams helped a lot. 👍🙏

[@DennisAnthonis]

... Thank you very much. Stay tuned. I’m about to upload another song and another lesson. 🤝

[@stevefreedman3130]

Thank you Dennis. I appreciate the kind and helpful information. I'll get to the 4+20 information later but for now I will just stay with the basic pattern. I am hoping that I can use my pattern for Donovan's song "Try for the Sun" that I play as well as Tom Paxton's "last thing on my mind." Two songs among many that I love. And thanks for mentioning the quarter, eighth, eighth, quarter beat progression. After all these years of hearing about beats it now sinks in. Also, I'll click on the subscribe button which I believe you asked us to do. Again thank you. Best wishes, Steve

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome Steve. I’m trying to upload a new lesson but I’m having some computer glitches presently. Turn on your notification bell when you subscribe.

[@DennisAnthonis]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqmnhGxnoqtma80si=eeasFYAvltVMZTWV Steve, if you’re progressing on your pattern you might want to give this lesson a look. The lesson is replete with improved graphics that will only reinforce what you’re learning. Let me know if it helps. Cheers my friend.

[@bernicekemp953]

Thank you Dennis .... I feel like I am starting to understand

[@DennisAnthonis]

... You’re welcome Bernice. Please check out the rest of the tutorials; each one offers supplements to facilitate learning this technique. Also, the tutorials that follow this one have newer and improved diagrams and illustrations. Thanks for taking the time to comment. I’ll check out your channel. Cheers.

[@mattheweddymusic]

Very helpful video. Most people tend to really focus on the alternating thumb when explaining travis picking, which for some reason just makes my brain hop off track. Putting the focus on the pinch is such a small change, but goes a long way for me in staying focused on the pattern. Thanks!

[@DennisAnthonis]

matt eddy ... Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad it was helpful. Stay tuned. I’m working on another tutorial to further demystify this Travis picking technique. For some, it’s easy and others not. I’ll probably post it Friday. Cheers buddy.

[@dennismascarenas5595]

Dennis thanks much you made it easy to learn and I am a slow learner you made it learnable thanks again!!!!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Dennis Mascarenas ... You’re very welcome Dennis. Thanks for listening and taking the time to comment. I appreciate your support. Stay tuned. I’ve got something in the works you may find helpful. Cheers my friend.

[@joemartin906]

I’m working on Travis picking it’s taking me a while but I think I’m going to be able to make it work for me! Thank you,!!!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thank you Joe. This was my first lesson that I produced. Please check out some of my tutorials I posted after this one. The diagrams are better. Most of the tutorials are for Travis picking. Cheers my friend.

[@NotfromDateline]

WITHOUT DOUBT THE BEST LESSON ON KZbin. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!! yes, I'm shouting.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Chris Hansen ..Thank you so much for your kind words.. I’m glad my tutorials are helpful. Perseverance and practice. Cheers buddy.

[@NotfromDateline]

@@DennisAnthonis i've got it down thanks to your video, thanks again!

[@ClimaxCanyonBand321]

Nice job my friend it seems to be helping a lot of beginners ,,, the guitar world needs people like you to pass down the knowledge of playing different styles in an easy to follow lesson because a lot of people who've been playing forever and try to instruct forget how frustrating it can be when you're just learning especially if the person teaching you don't know how to simplify the lesson for the beginner but I think you just did a killer job...... So bravo to you sir 🤘ROCK ON🤘

[@DennisAnthonis]

ClimaxCanyonBand321 ....Thanks for listening and thanks especially for your kind words. It’s so easy to get frustrated with this learning process. Stay tuned; I’m working on another tutorial to address this, as well as providing new diagrams that will address the timing of this finger style Travis picking technique. Cheers my friend

[@tcokli]

Thank you, very helpful tutorial!

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome. Try some of my later tutorials too. God bless you.

[@dieselman7453]

This helped so much thank you very much cheers from Ireland 🇮🇪

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re very welcome. This is the first tutorial I produced. Be sure and check out the lessons that followed, which are improved and have better diagrams. Cheers fro m St. Louis.

[@johnliddle9799]

Very nice series of videos...thank you kindly. I just sort of figured out how to play Key to the Highway fingerstyle...it's a nice simple song (A7, E7, D7) with a simple turnaround (the A7 shape frets 5, 4, 3, 2, then the E7 again)... Just gotta feel your way around it! Thanks Dennis for the inspiration!

[@DennisAnthonis]

... I’ll have to check out “Key to the Highway.” I’m not familiar with it. I love being turned on to new songs! I’m glad the lessons are helpful. Cheers my friend.

[@markntexas8265]

I unfortunately had to sell my Martin. I can’t wait to get another going to try this on my Strat or Epiphone Les Paul

[@DennisAnthonis]

I think this technique would sound great on an electric guitar!

Hello Dennis, very informative Travis Picking lesson. I understand this picking goes back many years ago to the Appalachian Mountains guitar playing, but Travis got the name. I'm left-handed so I have to concentrate a little extra with the diagrams but can be done. I wasn't bless with long fingers (short fingers) - for chords (that would be my right hand), but the left hand should be no problem just practice, patience + perseverance. I take it there is all types of finger picking styles in acoustic guitar + electric guitar even in jazz they finger pick, and I say to myself how do they do that not to mention even in rock/blues and popular music. Jeff Beck threw his pick away and uses his fingers to play. But here the subject is Travis picking explained down to the basics of its style of playing...great demonstration, Dennis. Thanks for you time.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Rey Alva ,,, Thank you Ray. I appreciate you listening and I appreciate your kind words. I wonder if I could reverse the images (a mirror image so to speak) and produce a similar tutorial for left-handed guitarists. May be worth investigating for a project in the future. Cheers my friend.

[@vodkaone1053]

@Ray Alva, That picking pattern is one used by Elizabeth Cotton. Interestingly, she was left handed and actually played the guitar upside down. She can be found on an old video on KZbin doing her song, Freight Train, which is perfect for this picking pattern in the key of C. Take a look.

[@tedbryer2512]

Hello Dennis! Just found your site - Ive been picking for some time but still having trouble with this. Thank You as it is much easier this way. I am glad to follow along. I inherited a Martin D45 from my dad so I won't be struggling with a cheap guitar. Thanks again!!

[@DennisAnthonis]

.... Wow, an old D-45! You inherited a gem my friend. Obviously, you’ve discovered that Travis picking isn’t ridiculously simple after all. But, 15 minutes a day for around a week or two will result in success. Good luck Ted! Keep me posted.

[@tedbryer2512]

@@DennisAnthonis I will. I just figured out the picking pattern of Doc Watsons deep river blues so Im on my way. Glad I found you!!

[@chriswiddis3797]

Great tutorial , love the tabs and the easy to follow instructions

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks Chris. I’m glad you found the lesson helpful.

[@dmagnin]

thanks for your AMAZING lessons. They are very helpful after 10 years of studying/learning guitar!!!!

[@DennisAnthonis]

... You’re very welcome. I’m a mediocre guitar player but I feel that learning this picking pattern and becoming proficient at it makes any guitar player sound better. And as so many songs are in 4/4 time, everyone’s song repertoire expands immensely. Good luck my friend in your musical endeavors.

[@mjain2]

Great tutorial, thanks! I've been dabbling with finger style for a while now. One of the best Travis style tutorials I've seen.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thank you Michael. I’m glad you found the tutorial helpful. It took me a while to figure this out so I’ve tried to develop a more effective way to teach it so that people can start practicing it right away and improve on their speed. Good luck my friend and thanks for your kind words.

[@alanaustin4260]

Exactly what I've been looking for. Have been wanting to learn finger-picking for a long time but couldn't figure out how to get started. Thanks to you, I'm ready to take the next step in my guitar playing. Thanks for sharing this. Beautiful Taylor, too!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Alan Austin ... Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment. Although each of my tutorials are repetitive in some way, each lesson injects something new to help students learn this technique. However, I recommend you jump ahead to my most recent lesson “Learn How to Travis- Pick in 15 Minutes,” where I break down the pattern into 3 steps. The guitar is a limited edition 412ce. I’ll check out your channel! Thanks Alan.

[@ConspiracyPundit]

I have recently dusted off my 1996 PR5 Artist after 15 years. Thank you so much for putting out a comprehensive video for free. I am trying to learn fingerpicking silent night for Christmas and I can not get my head around the pattern. So I will put that on hold and learn this one and go on from there. It would be great when buying tab that they told you the name of the pattern used for the song as well as which fingers to use. But I just ask for too much :) Anyway thanks again.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Please visit my most recent endeavor, which is a series of lessons and exercises dedicated to teaching aTravis picking pattern that can be used for any song in 4/4 time. I’m was preparing a 6th lesson and accompanying exercise when I suddenly developed trigger finger on my fretting hand. This will afford you the opportunity to catch up until I can fix this finger. This series is designed foe beginners who already know some chords and can strum. My lessons are well-illustrated with chord diagrams and on-screen picking patterns. Give it a look and tell me what you think.

[@danohearn2623]

Very easy to understand. Thanks!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Dan Ohearn ... You’re welcome Dan. I hope the lessons help.

[@hanstheisen7182]

Dennis, ever since I saw a video of Mark Knopfler where he said that it was not until he cracked the Travis pattern that he really picked up playing songs, I've wanted to learn the technique. And just by practicing today I am now SOOO close to be doing it myself. Thanks to your video. Thanks man. I will come back to this video again and again. And of course subscribe!

[@DennisAnthonis]

... I’m glad it helped. A friend of mine taught me how to Travis pick and I tried to utilize his method. As I remember, the closer I got to mastering it, a sense of splendid anticipation washes over you. Revisiting the video is the way to go. Be persistent and practice a little everyday (rather than a lot just on the weekend). Have you seen my other tutorials on Travis picking? If you haven’t, look at the one “TP :The Final Chapter.” Also, when you’re finally playing the pattern almost unconsciously, your first song should be “Brain Damage” by Pink Floyd. It’s one of the easier ones! I’ll teach it to you. I’ll check out your channel. Cheers buddy.

[@hanstheisen7182]

@@DennisAnthonis I'm sitting here in my home-office in the outskirts of Copenhagen, Denmark with a giant smile on my face. Thanks for taking the time to write me back. I will do exactly that and not rest until it sits. Will let you know how things develop over the coming months. Cheers!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Hans Theisen ... excellent Hans! Keep me posted.

[@babaradavis]

BEAUTIFUL and thank you xxx

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome Barbara. This was the video that gave birth to my tutorials. I appreciate you watching. I hope to be back in the saddle again soon.

[@redjohn1958]

Thank you

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching. Stay tuned, I’m about to post a lesson on “How to Play ‘Just Like That’” by Bonnie Raitt.

[@jesse9754]

I am happy to announce that I mastered this pattern, thanks a lot sir

[@DennisAnthonis]

Way to go, it’s amazing what a little patience, persistence, and practice can do. Congratulations.

[@jesse9754]

@@DennisAnthonis thank you sir,appreciate it

[@vic1mr]

Best explanation ive found so far than you , Its simple its works :) Funny how so "Many" can play and so few can teach simplicity

[@DennisAnthonis]

@@vic1mr … thanks for watching and thank you for taking the time to comment.

[@darkwhorse]

Wonderful lesson. Thank you. Practicing with my nuts n bolts now

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thank you Sandy.

[@geralynpalacol9295]

Excellent!!! Thank you Dennis!😍

[@DennisAnthonis]

Geralyn Palacol ... You’re very welcome Geralyn! I hope the lessons are helpful. Remember, 15 minutes each day! You’ll be Travis picking in a week or two.

[@Christmascancelled]

Great information.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks Ben. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@RonArca]

Thank you very much for your video, you speak in such a nice way of encouragement to help us with our journey to Travis picking. One of the best song's I ever heard that uses finger picking is Crystal Ball by Styx. I don't know if you can do it, but it would be cool if you could make another video and teach us the fingering style and chord changes. I love the way you teach, Thanks again, your video is great.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks Ron. I went right away and reviewed a cover of this song. You're right man, this is a great song and is perfect for Travis style fingerpicking (It would sure be hard to sing though).Presently, I'm unable to play secondary to hand issues that may require surgery; I find out on the 27th. If all goes well, I'll be back.

[@RonArca]

@@DennisAnthonis Sorry to hear about possible surgery OUCH and I certainly hope you don't lose your talent to play however you have a very good talent to teach. Like I have explained before, I adore your video. Stay strong good fellow.

[@molarjock]

Thanks for the excellent instruction and encouragement.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Dennis Mohney .. you’re welcome Dennis. I hope the tutorials are helpful. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to to comment. Cheers buddy.

[@vincericci4096]

Thanks Dennis, I too have always been a strummer and wanted to learn how to Travis pick. It really notches up the quality of your songs and sounds so peaceful. I have been practicing your method now for a couple of weeks on and off and have been making progress. We shall see if you can still teach an old dog a new trick...I think you can.

[@DennisAnthonis]

... You’re right, the rolling sound of this picking style is hypnotic, especially when executed well. Learning this takes some effort, but isn’t that what is required for desired results. One suggestion: giving it at least 15 minutes each day in succession will produce the best results to allow muscle memory to take over. Good luck Vince and thanks for your comment. Stay tuned, I’m working on another tutorial on John Prine’s fingerpicking style.

[@Robnord1]

Thank you Dennis. A pro ('Blue Stu' Herman) introduced me to finger picking 10 years ago by teaching me a very similar pattern and identical timing to what you have here. His went pinch (1&6), 4,2,6,1,4 for a G chord. After 40 years of flat pick only, and being a very slow learner, it took me a month to get it. I'll practice your pattern to spice Life up a bit. I would also like to learn a style like Lead Belly used on songs like _Poor Howard_ . A guy named Alonzo Garbanzo (real name Dennis) here on KZbin does _Poor Howard_ superbly, but even after watching him play in person a couple of weeks ago, it's something my old fingers and mind just can't seem to do yet. I only mention because you may enjoy some of his videos. Rob (a real person. haha. I Love how you deal with 'no video trolls' in the comments BTW👍 )

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks for watching and for your comment. The amazing thing about alternating-bass fingerpicking patterns is the multiplicity and duplicity. I do love when people turn me on to new artists I’m not familiar with. I will definitely check them out. Thank you. Nice to meet you. Cheers from St. Louis.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Maybe you’re ready for this?! At least look at it and let me know if it helps . The graphics are improved. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqmnhGxnoqtma80si=eeasFYAvltVMZTWV

[@robrandall1540]

This is excellent, thank you!

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@dmagnin]

thanks!!!!!!!!!! I have seen many such videos and thought I don't need any more. But I got tons out of this video. I Appreciate your sharing.

[@DennisAnthonis]

dmagnin ...Thanks a lot my friend . I’m glad you were able to get something out of this tutorial.

[@nomoreassos]

Thank you so much and am well on my way.First no nonsense lesson I ever came across .

[@DennisAnthonis]

[e-mail] ... you’re welcome my friend. I hope the lesson was helpful. Some of my other tutorials on Travis picking May help as well. Most important though is to take it slow at first and practice every day.

[@jmaldy1986]

Many thanks, sir!

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome Jose. I’m glad the lessons helped. Stay tuned. I’ve got a couple things in the works.

[@zitternden]

Thank you.

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching; hope the tutorials are helpful.

[@tjstevens001]

Very nice, thank you!!

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome my friend. I hope to get back to playing and producing more tutorials when My finger gets fixed. Stay tuned.

[@andydug]

The diagrams definitely help learning pattern.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thank You Andy. I’m fortunate in that my wife is a graphic artist. Stay tuned. More coming. Thanks for watching.

[@emel7472]

Excellent little tutorial for newbies like me. Thanks for sharing.

[@DennisAnthonis]

eMeL ... Thanks for listening. I hope this tutorial helped you. Travis picking, when executed well, is a wonderful accompaniment for solo artists particularly. But it requires patience, perseverance, and practice.

[@DennisAnthonis]

eMeL ... I’m glad it by. This particular tutorial was designed more for the beginner. The next two were devoted more for those beginners who are getting it and advancing. Stay tuned; more coming. Thanks for listening and commenting. Cheers my friend.

[@nipunzzz]

Always had trouble with this but you did the magic !

[@DennisAnthonis]

Shaikh Monjur Morshed ... That’s the kind of feedback I like! Remember, learn the pattern first. Take it slow at first. Speed will come later, almost automatically. I have 4 or 5 lessons on Travis picking. Although they’re repetitious out of necessity, each lesson brings something new into the picture. I must tell you that practice is paramount. Devote at least 15 minutes each day. If a couple of those days turn into 30 minutes, even better. Good luck my friend 🇧🇳

[@nipunzzz]

You earned a sub with the reply. Thank you❤

[@liamazael]

Very similar to Kansas "Dust in the Wind" Love this picking pattern.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Yes, you’re correct. The pattern for “Dust in the Wind” is very similar. The pattern he plays puts one more note at the end of each measure (the index finger on the B-string.)

[@petrovski1948]

Brilliant, thank you.

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re welcome my friend. More coming. 👍

[@jbflores01]

Excellent! Excellent! Excellent!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Javier Flores ... Thanks Javier! I hope the lessons are helpful.

[@downhill240]

Excellent lesson. Thanks for sharing!

[@DennisAnthonis]

downhill2400 ... Thanks for tuning in. I hope it helps.

[@MothersTarot]

Thank you so much for making this video!

[@DennisAnthonis]

You’re very welcome. I hope my lessons are helpful. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@GirishVenkatachalam]

Really easy. I hope to make this my first ever riff in my guitar learning journey. Thanks once again. Travis picking and your tutorial are both apparently easy, I wonder how long it is going to take for me to succeed though. Time will tell.

[@DennisAnthonis]

Thanks Girish. I appreciate you taking the time to reply. If you devote 15 to 20 minutes each day to learn this pattern, you’ll have it in a week. 🤝

[@Greghc48]

Thanks for the great instruction!

[@DennisAnthonis]

Greghc48 ... You’re welcome my friend. I hope it helped. I’ve got another in the can that I hope to post soon. Stay tuned.