u/smashing-dumplings

Did any other self-taught guitarists start out by learning basic chords and scales, playing songs they liked, and down-picking every note because alternate picking felt too difficult?

I found alternate picking frustrating for many years. Every time I tried to work on it, I couldn't even play the things I already knew. YouTube videos weren't helpful at all. I stuck to down-picking for several years, even though I wanted to learn alternate picking.

Are there others with similar stories? Did alternate picking come naturally to you?

I came across Chris Buono's Alternate Picking Gym this year and gave it a try because it looked systematic and structured. It completely changed my playing. I can't believe I used to play guitar without alternate picking. It is a crucial skill that benefits everyone who invests time into it.

What helped you learn this crucial skill?

How did you feel when you were part of Bethel (or a similar church) and they used keyboard music during a sermon, altar call, or offering message? Did it make you feel more comfortable? Did you feel like the music influenced your decisions or emotions in any way?

For those who now view it as a manipulative practice: what opened your eyes to it?

If you don’t think it’s manipulative, I’d love to hear your perspective as well. Someone I’m talking to right now who attends a Bethel style church doesn’t believe it’s manipulative, and he compares the music to the use of sermon props. They see it as just another tool to help communicate the message.

Where do you draw the line between creating an "atmosphere" and emotional manipulation?