Alternating middle and index

[ryan_adelphi]

I've read several things about alternating your middle and index fingers consistantly. From what I've been reading, you should start with your middle and alternate with your index. Also, some say to rake when moving from the G to D or A to E... etc. and some say NOT to rake. what is a better technique? I know that everyone has different techniques, but i just want to avoid developing a bad habit


thanks!

[Poop-Loops]

1) You can start however you like. I or M doesn't matter.

2) Raking is a good skill, but being able to alternate is a more basic skill and should be mastered first.

[Chunk-O-Funk]

Originally Posted by Poop-Loops

1) You can start however you like. I or M doesn't matter.

2) Raking is a good skill, but being able to alternate is a more basic skill and should be mastered first.

+1

Alternating fingers should be your first skill and it doesn't matter which you start with. Raking is fine as long as you are conscious about doing it. In other words, you are intentionally raking down the strings and know which finger to lead off with next.

You should basically look at alternate plucking and raking as two separate techniques. They can be combined once they are both mastered.

[markjazzbassist]

Originally Posted by Chunk-O-Funk

+1

Alternating fingers should be your first skill and it doesn't matter which you start with. Raking is fine as long as you are conscious about doing it. In other words, you are intentionally raking down the strings and know which finger to lead off with next.

+1

great advice. good luck.

[lemur821]

Best is to be able to start with either finger.