Finger Exercises

Akerfeldt · #1 03-21-2008, 01:15 PM

Hey, first off I apoligize if this is the incorrect spot to post this thread, but it seemed like the correct, so here goes.

Simple question. I have a habit of fingering the strings with 1 finger. For example, in "Dam That River" by Alice In Chains, the opening bass line, I have a habit of playing it all with one finger. Is their a disadvantage to this? Should I do exercises and play with two fingers? Any tips? I also notice if I try to play it with 2 fingers, I mess up more. Is this a problem?

Thanks in advance!

TheWhiteness · #2 03-21-2008, 01:19 PM

I think everyone has a bit of a tendency to that at first. I seem to have the same problem.

And yes, you do need to correct it. Playing with just one finger will severely limit what all you can play, and how fast you play it. It's something hard to get used to, and yes you'll make more mistakes in the beginning, but try working your middle finger into the equation by alternating with each pluck.

Something you may want to try is to set the metronome to a slow tempo, and just alternate plucking the open E string till you get more accustomed to using your middle finger in conjunction with your index.

Lelander · #3 03-21-2008, 01:21 PM

Plucking the strings with one finger will, in the long run, almost certainly slow you down. This is especially true when you play lines that move between strings (probably most bass lines). Many people use 3 or even all 5 fingers on the right hand for plucking strings. That being said, Jamerson only used one, and he was a great bassist.

If you are using the term fingering correctly, that is to mean fretting the notes with the left hand, then you had best start using all four of your fingers right now if you want your playing to progress. I am pretty sure that you are talking about playing fingerstyle with your right hand, though.

Akerfeldt · #4 03-21-2008, 01:24 PM

I am talking about plucking the strings. I apologize if I used the incorrect term, and/or 'which hand' I am using, because I am a lefty and sometimes get them mixed up.

As for fretting, I use all 4 fingers.

Lelander · #5 03-21-2008, 01:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Akerfeldt

I am talking about plucking the strings. I apologize if I used the incorrect term, and/or 'which hand' I am using, because I am a lefty and sometimes get them mixed up.

As for fretting, I use all 4 fingers.

Then playing fingerstyle with your left hand, as it were

Sorry, I tend to be right-handed centric.