String Skipping

Jump across strings cleanly to create wide interval leaps, arpeggios, and unique melodic patterns.

String skipping: Intentionally skip one or more strings to create wide intervals and unexpected melodic jumps. Requires precise muting and pick control.

Basic String Skipping Pattern

e|---5-------5-------5-------|
G|-----5-------5-------5-----|
E|-------5-------5-------5---|

Skip B and D strings, play E-G-low E pattern

Use strict alternate picking. Mute skipped strings with fretting hand to avoid unwanted noise.

Wide Interval Arpeggio

C major arpeggio with string skipping:
e|---8---------------|
G|-----9-------------|
D|-------10----------|
B|---------12--------|

Creates dramatic, wide-interval sound

Practice Tips

• Start slow (60 BPM), focus on clean string skips

• Mute with both hands to control unwanted noise

• Study Paul Gilbert, Guthrie Govan for string skipping mastery