A plectrum holding device for playing the guitar or the like string musical instruments comprises a handle-like casing unit (12, 14, 16) configured to be gripped by the player, with a mounting (18) for attaching a plectrum (20) in an operable playing position. Body portion (12) is provided with controls such as switching pad (22) with push buttons (24) and trackball (26), for remotely operating a variety of musical devices (A, B, C, D) such as synthesizers, VCRs, multi-effect producers, etc. In the example illustrated, the push buttons (24) and the trackball (26) are accessible by the thumb of the user, adapted to actuate infrared emitters (28, 29, 30).