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Just a reminder: The Chops Builder workshop is this Saturday from 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.

We'll cover...
- Alternate Picking
- Linear Exercises
- Angular Exercises
- Stretching Exercises
- Finger Independence Exercises
- Scale Applications

With that said, many people have asked what "chops" are.

Chops is another term for your left and right hand technique when playing your instrument.

The term started with the Jazz horn players from the 20's - 40's. Remember how "chops" used to be used in reference to your mouth, as in "I'll bust you in your chops"? Well, the horn players had to keep their mouth and facial muscles in shape (embouchure) to play their horns. If a player had trouble with their embouchure, they had to "work on their chops" in order to play better.

The term "chops"  is now commonly used for all instruments, not just horns.  As in, "That piano player has some chops" or "My alternate picking is off, I need to work on my chops".

So, there is the .05 cent version of Chops. Have fun and see you Saturday!




guitar guitar lessons guitar technique chops Alternate Picking Linear Exercises Angular Exercises Stretching Exercises Finger Independence Exercises Scale Applications