Left hand thumb placement?

_DOM_P_ · #1 12-31-2009, 11:44 AM

Okie so iv been playing for just under 3 years now and im still wondering how i should have my left thumb. I asked my bass teacher who sead it didn't really matter, but if i play a fast song that uses alot of the neck then my hand starts to hurt.

IS THEIR A CERTAIN WAY TO POSSITION MY LEFT HAND THUMB to the back of the neck?

Fergie Fulton · #2 12-31-2009, 12:17 PM

We are all different, but certain positions promote short term dexterity, some promote protection over long periods or sustained playing in one postion, and most importantly it can promote good hand health. See the link for more info

http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?f...ogId=475980040

Rudreax · #3 12-31-2009, 12:19 PM

If your hand is sore, it's a combination of poor hand placement and holding the neck too tightly. Loosen up your hand first, and then worry about where your thumb is. If your thumb is in a position that forces you to tighten up your hand, move it.

Hiromakuta · #4 01-01-2010, 05:20 PM

You could try to relax your shoulder and upper back while you play and place your thumb parallell with the neck. It will do wonders for anything below the 9th fret.

GerManson · #5 01-01-2010, 05:25 PM

i am always like this guy on the picture, and you can see me here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nJLXpbe5tU

is a very comfortable position but it limits the reach to some frets, i play mostly basic/simple bass line, so that is not an issue for me.
when i need something more flexible i switch my thumb to the middle of the neck in vertical position.