index finger on the 1

Rygel45 · #1 07-22-2003, 02:02 AM

I've noticed a habit in my playing that i usually if not always play the "1" of the measure with my index finger. I don't know if this means that all of my licks are subconciously centered around this habbit or not, but i feel that it might be limiting my bass lines/solos especially rythm wise. I play with two fingers (not counting thumb)i and m. Have any of you ever had this problem, and if so what did you do to solve it? thanks.

JMX · #2 07-22-2003, 02:34 AM

Everybody has a favorite finger, I also tend to start with the index.
Practice with opposite fingering too, e.g. i m i m i m i m and then m i m i m i m i.
Do this for everything you practice.

brianrost · #3 07-22-2003, 10:37 AM

If I am starting from a rested position, yes I usually use the index. Once I'm in the midst of a line I don't pay attention to my right hand.

I practiced strict alternation when I first started playing and now which finger gets used is completely subconcious...I have to LOOK at my right hand to see what I'm doing! This is a GOOD THING!!!

I would say don't worry until you come across runs that are tough to play, then carefully analyze the fingering of BOTH your hands to make it more natural to play.