1 - 4 FRET STRETCH

[TOMANO]

I have smaller than average hands. When using my full-scale basses, I find it difficult to do a four fret stretch from the 1st four frets without having my index finger lift or slant on the fret.

When we talk about the one finger per fret rule, does that mean that all four fingers should lay flat on the fret? I find that I need to shift or lift my index in order to get my pinky to the fourth.

Will this ever matter?

Thanks,

MT

[SubSectorSucker]

Not really. You have to do what is comfortable for you.

You could also try giving a short scale bass a try

[FretlessMainly]

The one finger per fret "rule" isn't something that everyone can adhere to in the low positions (as you've discovered). So no big deal - you'll just need to get your hand used to moving a bit more when playing down there. But as for laying fingers flat on the fret, I'm not sure I understand. When I play a fretted bass, especially in the lower positions, my fingers are not near the frets; they are typically 2/3-3/4 of the way between the two frets (closer to the fret actually being used).

[TOMANO]

By the finger on the fret, I mean laying flat on the fret board. If my index is on the F and I stretch to a G# with my pinky, the index turns on its side to accommodate.

[fearceol]

If it feels awkward, uncomfortable or painful, then dont do it. There is no need to keep the index finger down, unless it is needed. Here is a clip that explains this :

Bad Habits for Bass: The 1 Finger Per Fret System - YouTube

[chaosMK]

It's a stretch for me on my 35" scale bass. I rarely play on the low frets of the higher strings though. I just like the timbre better elsewhere for those notes.

[KingRazor]

Play what is comfortable.

I do 1-2-4 on the first 5 frets, usually. Then 1-2-3-4 on the rest of the bass. After 3 years of playing, the stretches have come more easily and I can do one finger per fret anywhere now if I want.

[TOMANO]

Thanks for all your comments. I love playing and am doing well, I just get hung up on the small hands thing. It's a thing, y'know. One of those things that gets in your head and messes with ya!

Thump On,

MT

[lfmn16]

Originally Posted by TOMANO

I have smaller than average hands. When using my full-scale basses, I find it difficult to do a four fret stretch from the 1st four frets without having my index finger lift or slant on the fret.

When we talk about the one finger per fret rule, does that mean that all four fingers should lay flat on the fret? I find that I need to shift or lift my index in order to get my pinky to the fourth.

Will this ever matter?

Thanks,

MT

"Rules" are only about what works for most people. If you have small hands you may only be able to play frets 1-3 without shifting; if you have huge hands you may be able to play frets 1-5 without shifting.

Also, I was taught, and use, two types of shifting. The first type is where you actually move your entire hand up and down the neck. The second type is where your thumb remains anchored and your hand shifts.

Last, you will probably find that you have the largest stretch with your thumb behind the neck. You may want to look into Simandl fingerings. They are for the double bass and may work well with small hands on an electric bass.