Moving Thumb?

[Paul4703]

Hi,

I was shown the 'correct' way to fret the strings was to keep the thumb at the back of the neck in line with the middle finger and not move it. Then fret the notes by rotating the hand up to place the index finger and rotate down to fret with the other fingers.

I've just watched the YouTube video linked from the post 'Developing a safe left hand technique' by HaVIC5. Here he demonstrates that the best way to fret the notes is to keep the thumb in it's natural position to the left of the index finger.

I've tried this and found it much more comfortable to play but it does mean shifting the thumb up and down the neck to play notes with all the fingers instead of keeping the hand in one place and stretching.

Which is the best technique?

[Deathblade Eric]

You've answered it yourself... the one that feels most comfortable.

Same goes for strap height - find the position where everything fits without strain & leave it there. If that means it's under your chin so be it, ditto if it's down by your knees. If you're relaxed it's right.

Have a video of a rather youthful Mr. Dunn:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_mKy-a6d1I

& at the other extreme, the nice Mr Kilminster:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LyuDyWc09G8

Not a Claw in sight.

Up the Middle - The Ox:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVl39LBZGMw