The definition of an arpeggio is “a broken chord”. Instead of being played all at once, or simultaneously, the notes of the chord are played one after another, in succession. “The House of the Rising Sun” is distinctive because of the arpeggiated chords.

The secret to playing the A minor arpeggio shape in exercise 24 clean and fast lies in thinking of both hands as equals. On the first string of this pattern, the second note (C) is hammered. This is followed by a note on the D string (E) and one on the G string (A). These two notes are played by rolling the finger across the strings. We don’t want both notes to sound at the same time; we want to hear them individually. Palm muting will be helpful in controlling the sound. Also note the pull-off on the high E string, and the reverse rolling motion on the descent.

Next we have Michael’s favorite minor sweep arpeggio shape (exercise 25). Again, be sure that only one note sounds at a time and that the notes are clearly and individually articulated. This shape does not require the “rolling technique” of the previous example. You will need to move fast to get to each note, but the articulation will be easier because each finger plays a different fret from string to string. Again, palm muting with the side of the picking hand will be needed to keep the sound clean. As in the previous example, we have a pull-off on the high E string.

If the arpeggio is repeated, as it will be in the following demonstration, then the upward sweep on the descent will end on the D string and the pattern will begin again with a downstroke on the A string. The second time that Michael descends here, he continues the upstroke through the A string. It is also possible to simply play the A note twice. It is advisable to practice both methods.

“In the original version of Speed Kills, I promised to give you the keys to the Lamborghini. Well, you have the keys but I must make clear- it’s up to you to learn how to use them. With these lessons (Speed Kills 2, Speed Kills Package), you will have the tools to master shred guitar, but it’s up to you to have the patience, motivation, and the time necessary to take advantage of these tools.

The truth is, there really are no short cuts to mastering guitar. It’s still all about practice, practice, practice. I’ve laid out step-by-step a program for you to increase your speed, play fast and clear, and to give you an awesome array of techniques. By working on the exercises in this program, you will become a much better player. And always remember- it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it!” -Michael Angelo Batio

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