How To Put On Guzheng Picks: A Step-by-Step Guide

To play the Guzheng you will need to wear finger picks. Some players wear picks on both hands while others prefer wearing them on the right hand only. Follow your teachers instructions or decide for yourself if you are learning on your own.

To put on Guzheng picks, you’ll only need a few things: Guzheng Picks, Finger Tape, and a pair of scissors.

Select The Picks

guzheng picks are needed when playing the guzhengGuzheng picks (fingerpicks) are made of many different materials. Typically synthetic material such as plastic / acrylic or organic material such as cow bone and tortoise shell. They come in various sizes to fit different finger sizes, and different thicknesses to produce different sounds. Select picks that are the right fit for your hand. Experiment with different materials and thicknesses to find a sound you like.

Prepare Your Fingernails

Before putting on the Guzheng picks, make sure your fingernails are clean and trimmed to an appropriate length. Long nails may interfere with the fit of the picks and affect your ability to play the instrument effectively.

Cut A Piece of Tape

Tape will hold the picks to your finger. You will need a piece of tape that is typically 15-20cm (6-8inches) in length. Wrap the tape once along the bottom of the pick. Now we are ready to put the pick on the finger.

Position The Picks

Hold the pick between your thumb and index finger, ensuring that the curved part of the pick is facing downwards. Be sure the pointed end of the pick is positioned towards your fingertip. The picks go on the pad of your finger and should start just above the first knuckle.

Wrap Tape Around the Pick

Wrap the pick with the tape in a neatly in one line. Be sure to not wrap the tape too tightly, or too loose. It should be tight enough to hold the pick in place, however, it should feel comfortable. You are nearly done putting on Guzheng picks.

Guzheng picks on the right hand

Adjust As Needed

Once the pick is in place, adjust its position to ensure it feels comfortable and allows you to play the strings with ease. You may need to experiment with different finger positions and pick angles to find what works best for you.

Repeat For Each Finger

Repeat the process for each finger you plan on wearing picks. Guzheng Picks on the Right Thumb

Thumb Picks Are A Little Different

For the right thumb, tape the pick at a 30 degree angle to the left. For the left thumb the pick should be at a 30 degree angle to the right.

Practice: After putting on the picks, spend some time practicing basic techniques and familiarizing yourself with the feel of the picks on your fingers. If you are not used to fingerpicks, it might take some time to adjust. Indeed, it may take some time to adjust to playing with picks if you’re not used to them. As you progress in your Guzheng journey you will find small adjustments that make the picks more comfortable and to better suit your hand, so be patient and persistent in your practice.