Left Hand Technique

[dulouz]

What are your thoughts on LH technique in terms of fingers per fret. I was taught to use the Simandl (1-2-4), and not to use OFPF. That hardly seems practical. Yet playing OFPF all the time can be exhausting. I also notice on Jaco's video that he uses both and even covers 5 frets when needed.

I use a mixture of all three. What do you do?

[Dave Overthrow]

I use the approach of one finger per fret on the electric bass. I was never a big fan of "extended" fingerings although some cats use it and sound impressive. I also don’t use the upright fingering by not using the 3rd finger because I find can play more when I use one finger per fret. When I consistently use the same approach of one finger per fret, it allows me to effectively plot out fingering strategies and play scales all over the fretbaord without having to look at my hands. This is important in it-self; if we don’t look at what we’re playing our ears tend to take over.

This doesn’t mean that using extended fingering or upright fingerings on the electric is wrong. Do what you feel comfortable with and what works best for you.

Peace,
Dave