Extra Song Examples: "Beaumont Rag" (Crosspicking Section)

One of the most difficult crosspicking phrases to learn how to play up to speed (from the standard flatpicker's repertoire) is found in measures 18 through 23 of the song "Beaumont Rag." This is a phrase that most flatpickers crosspick because when crosspicking is applied here it offers a very dramatic effect in the solo. However, since this song is usually played at a high tempo, and since the phrase is played on the A, D, and G strings, it is sometimes tough to crosspick.
As a crosspicking exercise, I've isolated the first 4 measures of this phrase and use it as a continuous crosspicking loop. I've also moved it around the fingerboard so that you can have a chance to practice crosspicking on the A, D and G strings (measures 1 through 4 below); the D, G, and B strings (measures 5 through 8 below); the E, A, and D strings (measures 9 through 12 below); and the G, B, and high E strings (measures 13 to 16 below). If you can play through each of these exercises and work to slowly build speed you will be able to greatly improve your crosspicking skills. Have fun!