NEW FINGER PICKING PATTERN - Learn Travis Style
If I can do it, anybody can!
Up for a Challenge?
If you’ve ever wanted to take your ukulele playing to the next level, it’s time to introduce your fingers to a cool technique - Travis picking! This finger picking pattern, made famous by legendary guitarist Merle Travis, can transform simple chords into rich, flowing melodies. Best of all, it sounds amazing on the ukulele!
What is Travis Picking?
Travis picking is a cool finger picking technique that involves a steady alternating bass pattern with the thumb while playing treble notes with the index or middle fingers. Originally developed for guitar, it adapts beautifully to the ukulele, adding a rhythmic groove and a touch of sophistication to your playing.
Why Learn Travis Picking?
• Great for solo performances – No band? No problem! This technique fills out your sound, making simple songs feel fuller.
• Works across genres – Whether you love folk, blues, pop, or country, Travis picking fits right in.
• Improves coordination – Your fingers will become independent little musicians, working together in harmony.
How it works
- The thumb plays the bass notes, usually on the fourth, and third strings
- The index and middle fingers play the treble notes, often in a syncopated rhythm
- The pattern is repeated throughout the song, adapting to the notes of each chord
- Travis picking is always in 4/4 time
How to Play Travis Picking on Ukulele
Here’s a simple Travis picking pattern to get you started. Start with a basic C chord.
1. Thumb (T) plucks the G string (4th string) and Middle Finger (M) plucks the A string (1st string) - at the same time.
2. Index finger (I) plucks the E string (2nd string)
3. Middle finger (M) plucks the A string (1st string)
4. Thumb (T) plucks the C string (3rd string)
5. Index finger (I) plucks the E string (2nd string)
Finger pattern: TM - I - M -T - I
Strings: (GA - E - A - C - E)
It is difficult to follow all of this in one go! So, let’s slow it down and see how it looks in real life…..
Try playing this very slowly, keeping the thumb steady. Then, repeat, repeat, repeat. Play as evenly as possible, giving an equal amount of time to each note.
Once you’re comfortable, speed it up and apply it to different chords!
Travis Picking Practice Tips
• Start slow and use a metronome to keep your timing even.
• Focus on thumb independence - this is key to making the pattern sound smooth.
• Practice on different chords to develop muscle memory.
• Try it with a song! ‘Country Roads’ by John Denver is a classic example.
What We Think
Travis picking is a fantastic way to bring a rhythmic, melodic groove to your ukulele playing. It’s a little challenging at first, but with practice, you’ll unlock a whole new dimension of sound. So grab your uke, get picking, and let those fingers dance!
What do you think? Let us know how you get on in the comments below.
Happy Plucking 😊🎶
