left hand techniques

[JoBo-86]

For me its the fourth finger thats the weakest. I don't know what I'd do with out my third, but i still use 1-2-3-4

[Gard]

Originally posted by JoBo-86
For me its the fourth finger thats the weakest. I don't know what I'd do with out my third, but i still use 1-2-3-4

Actually, I've found in my experience as a teacher that it's not actually strength that's at issue with the 4th finger, it's coordination. Once a student has taken the time to get the pinky caught up with the other three fingers, strength is never an issue. Basically, because you don't use the pinky for much, it's kinda "dumb" compared to the other three fingers + thumb, you just gotta get it smartened up.

[wynnguitars]

Yes well said Gard I agree as a teacher I see the same thing.The pinky is a little dysfunctional;Good call.

[Rockin John]

I sorta decided right from the off that I was going to adopt what's often called the 'correct' L/H technique: thumb at the back of the neck and all 4 fingers covering one fret each (and hopefully dancing over the fretboard!!!!!!)

However, for me, using 1-2-4 produces less finger stress when covering up to the 5th fret. That is, with the pinky fingering 4th or 5th depending on what's happening in the music. Thinking about it, I always use 1-2-3-4 from the 4th position and higher. And I suppose from about 8th or 9th position I can cover 5 frets albeit not very well from the music's point of view. Although I've all 24 frets freely available I seldom go above 17.

For me the interplay with the right hand is much more of a problem. For plucking I seem to be somehow finger synchronised between the two hands. It's damned annoying. But that's a different thread, I guess.

Rockin John

[tucker]

Sorry but I use all my fingers on my left hand, even thumb for those who are questioning. Yeah i learned well taught myself that every finger is important and need when playing. I play with my thump on songs that are slow that I make up or really cool made up chords.
well one my right hand i use all of my fingers except sometimes i use my pinky.