SWEEP PICKING LICK

This sweep picking lick introduces one of the most visually impressive techniques in guitar — the arpeggio sweep. Made famous by Yngwie Malmsteen and developed further by players like Frank Gambale and Jason Becker, sweep picking allows guitarists to play arpeggios at speeds impossible with standard alternate picking.

About This Lesson

Sweep picking uses a single continuous pick stroke across multiple strings — combined with precise left-hand fretting to separate each note cleanly. The result is a fast, fluid arpeggio that sounds almost like a piano or harp run. This lick introduces the technique in a practical, musical context.

What You Will Work On

• Sweep picking mechanics — one continuous motion across multiple strings
• Left-right hand synchronization — the most critical element of clean sweeping
• Arpeggio shapes — major and minor triads across three to five strings
• Note separation — each note must sound individually, not ring together
• Speed building — slow, clean repetition is the only path to fast sweep picking

Tips for Learning

• Start at 40 BPM — slower than feels necessary.
• Mute each note immediately after picking — this is what makes sweep picking clean.
• Practice the fretting hand alone without the pick until the shapes are automatic.
• Record yourself from the front to watch both hands working together.