Proper Left Hand Thumb Placement
Source: Guitar Basics
One of the most import things about holding the Guitar Neck with your left hand is how you place your thumb. As the above photograph indicates, place the thumb of the left hand in the center portion of the neck. Again notice the space between the palm of the hand and the neck, minimizing friction and allowing air ventilation to all parts of the hand.
This will be challenging at first and feel somewhat uncomfortable, but stick with it and it will grow on you and once you master it, you are on your way to becoming a great guitarist.
Proper Left Hand Position
Source: Guitar Basics
In the photograph above notice the hand is in a relaxed position, the fingers are gently arched and able to contact the strings at a sharp angle – between 45 and 60 degrees, which will allow a great deal of freedom and strength to press down the strings without buzzing.
Also notice that there is quite a bit of space between the palm of the hand and the neck. The hand does not grab the neck in a “death grip” position, which is typical with beginning guitar students.
Imagine you are holding the guitar by your fingernails and then allow your hand to completely relax and suspend only by the tips of your fingers. That is how your hand should look.
This is a very relaxed position and you can play the guitar for hours without you hand getting tired or sore. This position will seam difficult at first, buy it will pay-off for you in the long run if you practice getting your left hand position “just right”.
Tags: beginner guitar lessons, free guitar lessons, how to hold the guitar, proper left hand postion
