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Forum Newbie
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Last Login: 5/8/2009 7:42:51 PM
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I have small hands, short fingers and very little stretch. As an example, when trying to make a "C" chord on the guitar, I can't get my ring finger on the 5th string/3rd fret. It just won't reach. (I even have a 3/4 guitar and I can just barely make it.)
Any suggestions on ways to improve this? Or should give up guitar for something easier on my fingers?
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President For Life
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Last Login: 2 days ago @ 11:25:43 PM
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Sometimes this is a function of technique rather than size (thank you Dr. Ruth). Is your wrist arched downward with your thumb in the middle of the neck? I'd suggest (if you haven't done so already) that you get at least one lesson from a good teacher to see if your hand position can be improved. There are also exercises to limber up your fingers and improve your stretch.
Is your 3/4 size guitar a classical type, with a wide neck, or is it a "folk" model with steel strings and a narrow neck? This might make a difference too.
By all means, don't give up. I've never seen anyone with hands so small he or she can't reach the chords after some work. As inspiration, try to watch a video of Andres Segovia, one of the world's greatest classical guitarists. His hands were tiny.
Good luck!
Musically yours,
Happy
------------------
Happy Traum
Homespun Tapes
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Forum Newbie
Group: Forum Members
Last Login: 5/8/2009 7:42:51 PM
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Thanks for your response.
My 3/4 is a steel string "Little Martin." I also have a baritone uke which is tuned DGBE....perhaps Baritone Uke to 3/4 to full size.
BTW...Happy,.. I'm using your "You Can Play Guitar" DVD set.
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Forum Newbie
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Last Login: 5/18/2009 12:42:27 AM
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Check out Muriel Anderson, she's got tiny hands and she can play OK. 
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Forum Guru
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Last Login: Yesterday @ 8:27:48 PM
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| Years ago I was studying classical guitar and came across a very difficult chord. When I told my teacher that I didn't think I could make the stretch she said, "Let me see your guitar." She made the chord perfectly and then said, "Put your hand up to mine." Our hands were heel to heel and I could wrap my fingers over the top of hers! So I had to say, "Point well taken." True story. I know everybodie's hands are different, but I'de say to follow Happy's advice. Another quick fix is to use a capo. The frets are closer together up the neck. Rick
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